If you were going to have any Elton John CD in your collection, from an era, when he was simply at his most creative and best, then this is the one to go for. Considered one of his masterpieces, it came out at a time when Elton and his writing partner, Bernie Taupin, had already begun to establish themselves as a formidable writing duo.
Blasting us from the first track, "Funeral For A Friend/Loves Lies Bleeding", it shows us straight away why John and Taupin had such an influence in synthesizer rock. Just listening to the song, with it's frenzied piano pounding and its mix of classical and rock components, it makes you think that it would make one hell of an opener to an Elton John concert during this period, and how amazing it would have been to see Elton in his prime.
The whole album comes off as a very pop-savvy album, that takes many twists and turns into different genres, suiting the name Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. There are so many different genres infused on this CD that it has a little something for everyone.
Originally the album was supposed to be recorded in the Caribbean, but political unrest changed this. However, that did not stop Elton from infusing some lush tropical influences into the album, especially on "Jamaica Jerk-Off", with its reggae inspired beats and melodies and steel drum grooves.
Elton then switches genres to R&B with his number one hit, "Bennie And The Jets". It is a jaunty little number, which has strong beats, and is strengthened by John's extraordinary piano skills. Ironically, John felt that the song was too boring, and didn't think it would become a hit. It was his producer Gus Dudgeon that added the whistles, and the audience clapping to give it that live feel.
Article comments
1 - Evan
Elton John is talanted in 1975 he hepled Neil Sedaka reborn his music career
2 - Evan
i do like Olivia Newton John but i would be caught wearing a t - shirt of Elton John more