Paul McCartney and Denny Seiwell

A nice pic of Paul and the drummer on RAM and the first two Wings albums, Denny Seiwell. Taken in 2001. Taken at Paul's studio.

Nice to see Paul see friendly with his ex Wings band mate.

So what is currently in my Macca playlist all you lovely people?!

Band on the Run - remastered issue details

PRE-ORDER NOW

YOU HAVE NOW READ MY REVIEWS AND THE NEW VERSIONS ARE READY TO BE RELEASED.

Taken from paulmccartney.com

Paul's Epic #1 Album From 1973 Will Be Available In Multiple Configurations Featuring Remastered Rare Bonus Audio & Video Content 

With Special Exclusive Packaging

November 1st in the UK

November 2nd in the US

MPL and the Concord Music Group are pleased to announce the re-release of Paul McCartney & Wings’ iconic Band on the Run. Heralded as one of the greatest albums of all time, the GRAMMY winning, smash # 1 album - originally released December of 1973 - yielded the immortal title track and world-wide hit “Jet” becoming Wings’ most successful and celebrated album ever. 

Paul personally supervised all aspects of the Band on the Run reissue. The remastering work was done at Abbey Road using the same team who recently remastered the complete Beatles’ catalog. 

Band on the Run will be available in a variety of formats originating with the single disc digitally remastered, essential 9-track standard edition. The 3 disc (2CD, 1 DVD) special edition features nine bonus audio tracks (including the top 10 smash “Helen Wheels”), rare footage of the McCartneys in Lagos and behind-the-scenes at the famous album cover shoot, original Band on the Run promotional video clips, the One Hand Clapping television special (highlighted by studio performances filmed at Abbey Road in 1974) all with beautifully enhanced packaging. Collectors will be especially thrilled by the 4 disc (3CD, 1 DVD) deluxe edition which adds an extraordinary 120-page hard bound book containing many unseen and unpublished photos by Linda McCartney and Clive Arrowsmith, album and single artwork, downloadable hi-res audio versions of the remastered album and bonus audio tracks, a full history of the album complete with a new interview with Paul and expanded track by track information for all four discs. The deluxe edition also includes a special Band on the Run audio documentary (originally produced for the 25th Anniversary edition.) The original remastered album and bonus audio content will also be issued in a 2 disc 180gm audiophile vinyl edition that comes with an MP3 download of all 18 tracks. Lastly, the standard and deluxe versions of Band on the Run will be available digitally worldwide.

The musical achievement of Band on the Run is nearly matched by the amazing story behind its creation. Intrigued with recording abroad in the summer of 1973, McCartney searched for a list of studios around the world. Spotting one in the remote location of Lagos, Nigeria, he became enthralled with the idea of recording in Africa. Days before departure, lead guitarist Henry McCullough and drummer Denny Seiwell quit the band leaving the entire project to the three core members, Paul, his wife Linda McCartney and band-member Denny Laine (along with recording engineer Geoff Emerick). Recorded in August and September of 1973 (with further work done at AIR Studios in London in October 1973), they persevered through a tumultuous, yet creatively invigorating 2 month recording process battling difficult studio conditions, oppressive heat and a dangerous mugging at knife point. The thieves made off with the demo tapes (among other valuables), forcing the band to record the entire album from memory. 

Band on the Run triumphed both critically and commercially. The album topped the US album chart 3 separate times, won a Grammy and went on to sell more than 7 million copies. Upon the release of Band on the Run, then Rolling Stone reviewer Jon Landau famously gushed, “The finest record yet released by any of the four musicians who were once called The Beatles.” 

Paul is currently playing five songs from the album on his ‘Up and Coming Tour’. Live favorites over the last 8 years of touring have included “Jet”, “Band on the Run” and “Let Me Roll It”. In 2008 when Paul played a free outdoor show to over 500,000 people in Kiev, a Ukrainian poll listed “Mrs Vandebilt” as their all time favorite Paul McCartney song. It’s been included in the set ever since. At the start of this tour Paul added “Nineteen Hundred and Eighty Five” to the set. 

Band on the Run marks the first release from the Paul McCartney Archive Collection, an ambitious reissue program that encompasses 40 years of cherished, classic material from the most successful songwriter and recording artist in music history. It’s also the initial physical release of the recently announced agreement between McCartney’s MPL and Concord Music Group to globally market and distribute Paul’s venerated solo and Wings catalogue. 

London Town Album Review

Release Date: March 1978

Artwork: Another very poor artwork. Fine for general publicity shots but for a cover it is dreadful. The font and colours used are also very poor and the back cover is even worse. It also looks very dated.

General Comments: Released after punk changed the outlook of music and rocked some of the establishment out of the picture, Paul returned with a mellow affair full of good tunes and pretty good songs. Did not include the massive single Mull of Kintrye which was released 4-5 months prior to this album. The album would have sold more if it did. Overall this is an album that is enjoyable and on the whole shows a mature Paul. Certainly in the underrated category.

Track by Track 

1. London Town

One of the really mellow tracks on the album. It makes you feel nostalgic, chilled and happy at the same time. I enjoy the phrasing, the structure, the different vocal styles and the harmonies of the song. I enjoy Paul's lyrics on this track, he sometimes has this way of just relating to you without being clever. Sweet melody too.  7.5/10

2. Cafe on the Left Bank

A bit dated now, but a very enjoyable track and actually in many ways quite experimental. A good vocal with a really good vibe.  Love the guitar in this one. 7/10

3. I'm Carrying

A great little song. Very mature and shows Paul at his best. Wonderful vocal too. A true hidden gem. 8.5/10

4. Backwards Traveller

A nice short little track that is OK and works well on the album. 5.5/10

5. Cuff Link

Sounds very dated at the start but actually gets under your skin. An instrumental that could have been a theme tune to detective series! 6/10

6. Children Children

A Denny vocal and a co-write. Not one of my favs. 3.5/10

7. Girlfriend

A sweet track that for some reason I am embarrassed to like, but I do... so there! 6.5/10

8. I've had Enough

A real simple rocker with a fantastic vocal. Perhaps not a strong choice as a single, but still one of Paul's best pot boilers! 7/10

9. With a Little Luck

I love this track. It is pop perfection and one of his best singles. It makes you feel soooooo good. It is deceptively clever too. I love the words and the spirit behind the song and it just flows along and is so natural and mellow. Parts sound very much of their time but for me it just adds to its charm. I almost gave this a ten. 9.5/10

10. Famous Groupies

Paul producing a quite good and quite funny track. 5/10

11. Deliver Your Children

An nice acoustic number which is sung by Denny with a vocal I actually enjoy.  6/10

12. Name and Address

A rock'n roll song reminiscent of early Elvis. Think Paul was in his element doing this. I like it but wish it was a b-side. 5/10

13. Don't Let it Bring You Down

A wonderful track and quite a departure from much of his material. He sounds serious and sings with real meaning and sincerity. The arrangement matches perfectly. Another top notch vocal. A folk song really with an celtic blues edge. Actually, this track is one of my favourites. 9/10

14. Morse Moose and the Grey Goose

Crap title disguises a pretty interesting track which is driven along by a really good funky and rocking vibe. A screaming Paul vocal in parts, but ultimately this track does not deliver. 4.5/10

Overall score: 90/140

Overall score indexed: 64%

Advice: BUY

Wings at the Speed of Sound Album Review

Release Date: March 1976

Artwork: One of his worst. Throwaway. Looks like it should have been for a live album.

General Comments: Released at the same time as the second part of the massive tour and at probably when Wings were at their biggest, particularly in the USA. Overall it is one of my least favourite albums by Paul. Has two or three real highs but lots of filler. Again Paul shares the vocal duties with other members of the band and the result is a quite disjointed affair. To be honest I want Paul singing everytime.

Track by Track 

1. Let 'Em In

One of the first Paul songs I became aware of. I really have an affection for this track. It is simple, funny but classy. A great and clever song and very accessible but does have something that keeps the interest on repeated listens. I always thought that this song had a Beatle feel to it for some reason. The lyrics often get panned but f**K 'em I find them quite endearing! 7.5/10

2. The Note You Never Wrote

This song just bores me I am afraid and I dislike the vocal too. 4/10

3. She's My Baby

Infectious and fun. Paul is a very clever chappie. Jazzy, bluesy and good! 6/10

4. Beware My Love

The best track on the album and one of Paul's best songs full stop. Wonderful structure with a fantastic vocal too. It rocks and is basically a must for any Paul fan. Deserves to be better known. 9/10

5. Wino Junko

Jimmy wrote and sings this track and it is pretty good to be fair. Worth a listen. 5/10

6. Silly Love Songs

A wonderful pop track. A killer bass line. Wonderful structure. Great harmonies. A guilty pleasure to millions I bet. Paul sticks two fingers up at everyone with quite a clever and witty song. I think if he had the guts to play this live again then the audience would go crazy. 7.5/10

7. Cook of the House

Linda sings this one. Should have been a b-side. Has a passing interest, but I am afraid that the interest passes quickly. 3/10

8. Time to Hide

An OK Denny song. Sorry Den but I just don't dig your voice. 4/10

9. Must Do Something About It

The best non Paul vocal track of the album. Joe English does a decent job on a very simple and catchy song. There are bootlegs of  Paul's version around and it is a shame that it was not used instead. Still a good track though and enjoyable. 5/10

10. San Ferry Anne

I like this track. It has more mature adult feel to it than the rest of the album. Although it sounds quite different it always reminds me of 'Don't Let it Bring You Down' from London Town. A little bit of a folky feel. Solid and a grower. 6/10

11. Warm and Beautiful

A stunning ballad. Beautiful, heartfelt and sincere. Simplicity at its best. 7/10

Overall score: 64/110

Overall score indexed: 58% 

Advice: DON'T BUY UNTIL TOWARDS THE END OF BUILDING YOUR COLLECTION, IF AT ALL. GET THE SINGLES FROM COMPILATIONS BUT YOU MUST DOWNLOAD BEWARE MY LOVE AND WARM AND BEAUTIFUL.

Venus and Mars Album Review

Release Date: May 1975

Artwork: Another good cover that echoes Pink Floyd, although I think it would have been much better if the 'Venus and Mars' type face was not there and it was just the main image. I guess marketing is more important than art.

Still a very good cover and one of Wings' best.

General Comments: The follow up to Band on the Run was really good and set the band up for the long tours of 1975-1976 with some strong and appropriate live material. Wings started becoming more of a band with their best line-up and some sharing of the lead vocals. All and all a very enjoyable and confident album that defines Wings, although parts have dated.

Track by Track 

1. Venus and Mars

A beautiful melody with cosmic lyrics. Another good track to have a cup of tea too and just perfect for a concert opener. This is one of my favourite Wings tracks and always brings a smile to my face. Nice acoustic guitar. 9/10

2. Rock Show

Well if Venus and Mars brings a smile to my face with this track I positively radiate. It is funny, it rocks, it is of the time but most of all it is high quality. 7/10

3. Love in Song

One of Paul's best ballads with Wings. This is a beautiful haunting piece with a great twangy guitar and great sounds and lyrics. A little gem. 10/10

4. You Gave Me the Answer

Fun but the English Tea of the album. 5/10

5. Magneto and Titanium Man

Another song that is great fun. I am sure if I was in my teens when it was released I would have really loved this song. However, to be honest fun is all it really is. 6/10

6. Letting Go

Second best track on the album. Swampy, heavy and bluesy. I love the lyrics and the singing on this. A song that deserves classic status. 9/10

7. Venus and Mars (Reprise)

A welcome return and it sounds even more cosmic. Another cuppa methinks! 8/10

8. Spirits of Ancient Egypt

A solid track with Denny on lead vocals. Quite bluesy. Silly lyrics. Filler but OK filler. 4.5/10

9. Medicine Jar

Jimmy takes the lead on this and also wrote it. A pretty good track really. Reminds of someone but can't think who at the present. 4.5/10

10. Call Me Back Again

This is very soulful and the brass really adds to it. Great vocal and very enjoyable. Live version is also very very good. One of the highlights on the album. 8/10

11. Listen to What the Man Said

The single and one of the best pop songs Paul has ever done. Fantastic, classy and catchy. This song is of very high quality. 10/10

12. Treat Her Gently / Lonely Old People

This is a lovely track really. Wings were finding a nice style and vibe. A natural progression of some of Paul's Beatle songs in my opinion. The piano sounds quite like Lennon. Possibly a little long but very good quality Wings. 8/10

13. Crossroads Theme

A fun but pointless way to end the album. 3/10

Overall score: 93/130

Overall score indexed: 71.5% 

Advice: BUY YOU'LL HAVE A BALL

Band on the Run Album Review

Release Date: December 1973

Artwork: An iconic cover. Nothing else to say really, other than it is great!

General Comments: The album that sent Wings mega and Paul back to the top. The story behind the problems associated with the album have been told a million times, but the results were an almost flawless album which was on par with his previous bands work. A joy from start to finish and works well as a complete album.

Track by Track (based on UK track listing):

1. Band on the Run

The first time I heard this I thought there must be a missing song on the album cover as I was convinced it was two songs. There are really 3 parts of this song the 'Stuck inside these 4 walls' bit, the 'if we get out of here' bit and then the main bit. I love it all, but have a particular fondness for the 'if we ever get out of here' bit. The song builds and builds and is very uplifting. It is great live, although a little over played live. A complete classic. I dare anyone to say they don't like this song. 10/10.

2. Jet 

So powerful, pretty heavy too. I love Paul's ethereal vocals on this one. It is clearly from the 1970's but has the quality where it fits in any era. Crazy lyrics just add to its charm. 9/10.

3. Bluebird

I like this song, it is simple and pretty. However, despite its obvious quality, I have yet to really fall in love with it, but can see why some do. It is still a joy to listen to though and rather good. Acoustic beauty. 7/10.

4. Mrs Vandebilt

Probably the track I first fell in love with when getting this album. It has such a grove, almost like a modern rap song in the verses. A very catchy song which could have been a big hit if it was a single. It gets some stick for the 'Hey ho' bit, but I love that part too. 8/10.

5. Let Me Roll It

This track is too often just called Paul doing John, but as far as I am concerned it is just Paul doing a fantastic riff driven heavy song. This is one of the songs I use as evidence to prove Paul could rock with the best of them. Great guitar and bass. 8/10.

6. Mamunia

Another lovely acoustic song which I really like rather than love. Like Bluebird though it never gets skipped and is always a joy. I enjoy this one late at night when it has been raining. 7/10

7. No Words

A Macca and Laine co-write and it is fantastic. Lots of nice different sections and melodies. Interesting sounds and musical breaks. A real grower this one.  8/10.

8. Picasso's Last Words

Simple and dreamlike. Written on demand for Dustin Hoffman and the results are honest, fresh and delightful.  Has a lovely little 'Jet' interlude that is a great surprise on first listen and then a nod to 'Mrs Vandebilt' too. The song gets better as the orchestral backing starts to enhance the song towards the end. I wish this would come out to be played live again. Mellow, soulful and brilliant. 8/10.

9. Nineteen Hundred and Eight Five

Along with Maybe I'm Amazed this probably my favourite McCartney track. There is nothing like this anywhere in music. It is hard to describe. It has a fantastic groove driven along by great piano. Vocals that sound like they come from another world which are sung very quickly. It still stands out as something from an era that has not yet happened. I cannot not fault this track and never get bored of it. Has a small reprise of the title track at the end which bookends the album wonderfully. 10/10.

Overall score: 75/90

Overall score indexed: 83% 

Advice: BUY - OF COURSE!

Red Rose Speedway Album Review

Release Date: May 1973

Artwork: Personally I hate this cover. It looks cheap and tacky. The overall LP packaging though was quite interesting with lots to look at.

General Comments: I guess this is the album when Paul started to get it back together commercially and with the public.  It was the start of the period 73-77 when Wings became one of the biggest bands in the world. It has some hidden gems, some experimental stuff, some Macca standards and some lazy drivel. Despite the negative aspects there is something that I find very endearing about this LP and I like the sound and production too.

Track by Track:

1. Big Barn Bed

A good solid rocker to start the album. Quite raw, reminds me a little of 'Mumbo' from 'Wild Life'. Enjoyable but disposable. Check out the start to James Paul McCartney TV special on YouTube for a great performance of this track. 6/10.

2. My Love

A lush epic timeless ballad. Enjoyable and a Paul classic. However, there is something that I just can't put my finger on that stops me really loving it and actively seeking it out to play. Of course it has that wonderful guitar solo. 7/10.

3. Get on the Right Thing

I enjoy this track every time I hear it. I would like this live as it is a good 'band' song which really builds to a good climax. Another one of those McCartney tracks that gets in your system. 7/10.

4. One More Kiss

Not one of my favourites but OK I suppose. Has a country feel to it but I would often skip when this comes on. Could do better. 5/10.

5. Little Lamb Dragonfly

I always put this and 'Some People Never Know' in the same bracket. Both truly wonderful songs, although both a little over long. This is two songs made into one and eats into you mind and won't let go. Sweet, mellow and addictive. Some of the vocals near the start sound just like John. A big high of the album. 9/10.

6. Single Pigeon

This really is a hidden gem. Great melody, great fun, good lyrics, great sound and vocals. I just love this song. If you don't know it, seek it out and make it your friend. Short but wonderful. 9/10.

7. When the Night

Another song that has its moments but does not really do much for me. Lazy as it could have been a really good track. 5/10.

8. Loup (1st Indian on the Moon)

A nice little experimental piece. A little bit of Floyd in this one. Quite brave to put this on the album. Mellow and nice to relax to with a cuppa. 5/10.

9. Hold Me Tight

As we are into the medley now it is hard to separate them all. I actually love Hold Me Tight. I really enjoy the vocals and the piano sound. 6/10.

10. Lazy Dynamite

Great link from 'Hold Me Tight' and another great little track with sweet mellow guitar. All that was good about the 1970's. 7/10.

11. Hand of Love

Another track that is just so catchy and great fun. I am sure Paul makes these up in his sleep. Effortless. 6/10.

12. Power Cut

Last part of the medley and it is again enjoyable. Ties up the other songs nicely. Too long though. 5/10.

Overall score: 78/130

Overall score indexed: 60% 

Advice: BUY WITH CAUTION BUT YOU WILL ENJOY

VOTE NOW!!!!!!!

Paul and Denny back together  in 2007 at
Wembley for a UB40 concert

As I am reviewing Paul's albums are the remastering/reissue campaign looms you can vote for your favourite Paul LP (with a little help from Denny and Linda!) at the right of this Blog page.

So vote now!

Search Amazon.com for paul mccartney

YOUR COMMENTS WOULD BE WELCOME TOO.

Wildlife Album Review

Release Date: December 1971

Artwork: The photo on this shot is a nice picture of the band in beautiful countryside surroundings near a river. They look like a 1960's folk band or something. Always reminded me a little of John's Plastic Ono Band cover. No mention of who it is on the sleeve. Does look dated now. OK, but not one of my favourite covers.

General Comments: Wings first really does sound like a new band starting out. Quickly produced and although raw not particularly well recorded. A big hit and miss affair this one. Some 'must have' McCartney and some wish it never existed McCartney. Worth a listen and nowhere near as bad as people have made out. Half of the album is excellent.

Track by Track:

1. Mumbo

This song is quite enjoyable really, quite raw and infectious. A solid track, nothing more. 5/10

2. Bip Bop

A harmless bit of fun which would have been better as a b-side or kept in the archives. 3/10

3. Love is Strange

A rarity for Paul on a standard album, a cover version. It does not really do anything for me though although it has a nice relaxed feel and sounds good played loud on a hot day in the sun. Should have been a b-side. 5/10

4. Wild Life

I really like this track. Raw, quite heavy and great vocals. One of Paul's hidden gems. 7/10

5. Some People Never Know

Beautiful track that may or may not be partly aimed at John. Regardless it is heartfelt and always interesting to play. Perhaps a little over long, but top notch McCartney. 8/10

6. I am Your Singer

I know a lot of people like this one, I just find is difficult to listen to. Somewhere there is the basis of a decent song though. 3/10

7. Tomorrow

Excellent song, but could have been recorded and produced better. However, that should not detract from what is a high quality track and very inventive. 8/10

8. Dear Friend

Haunting, mournful, emotional - all the things that people say Paul can't do. Paul stripped bare. I hope John listened. 9/10

Overall score: 48/80

Overall score indexed: 60%

Advice: BUY EVENTUALLY OR DOWNLOAD 4 KEY TRACKS AND DON'T BOTHER

Solo and Wings album reviews

With the remasters of all his albums 'up and coming' I thought over the next few weeks I would review and mark them all and at the end we will find out my fav Macca album!

Enjoy!

Up and coming Tour

Well I think Paul's current tour has gone some way to pleasing the people wanting some changes to the set list. It is much improved and more balanced. I think the second half is still a bit samey, but understand it will always be Beatle heavy,  some changes are needed there, or even a change of order would help.

Why not move tracks like Get Back and Lady Madonna to earlier in the set. Bring back Golden Slumbers/Carry that weight/The End for the final encore. I think Hello Goodbye might be good choice as a first encore. Bring back I saw her standing there too. Just some tweaks and maybe even a surprise in Uncle Albert or something rocking like Juniors Farm or The Night Before, although I think they would be better earlier replacing Jet and Highway early doors.

Anyway, generally really pretty happy - 1985 and Letting Go rock. Ob-la-di-ob-la-da is surprisingly good and fun. Good too that he alternates sets a little too. How about new song stories inbetween songs too though? I have always thought that he would love telling the Dustin Hoffman story before playing Picasso's last words.

Watch Paul play Hyde Park here!

McCartney Predictions for 2010 (hopes)

A new year and more Macca magical moments ahead, but what do I hope will happen in Paul World in 2010.


1. A wonderful new solo album not produced by David Kahne but someone who can kick Paul into producing brilliance (again) and a warm interesting sound (a la Godrich and Youth)
2. A small, short Fireman tour

3. A UK tour which features 12 Beatle songs, 12 solo songs and 12 Wings songs

4. A Wings rarities box set

5. A major interview which is truly reflective of his whole career with interesting probing questions

6. Let it Be released on DVD

7. No appearances on reality TV shows

8. The trainers and suit to be dumped!

Should McCartney do X Factor?

It seems highly likely that our fab Macca is going to be not so fab and appear on X Factor.

Is this just a harmless bit of fun and a perfect opportunity for Paul to reach as big an audience as he has done for years or is it seriously damaging is reputation and harming him ever becoming respected as Lennon?

Paul has done many great things and good choices in recent years; Fireman, Glastonbury, Coachella, Electric Proms, Liverpool Sound Collage, working with Nigel Godrich etc. all with have helped restore his 'frog chorus image' does this put him back to square one.

Does anyone else agree that there are 2 Paul McCartney's - 1. one that just wants to be cool and underground and 2. One which wants to be adored and mainstream.

Should he care about his legacy more or our we all just too precious?

Paul McCartney's live show

So as Paul McCartney is set to play Europe in December debate rages on if he should he change his stale song choices and play more Wings and solo work and at the same time keep Beatles songs and his legacy a little more special and in tact.

What would you like him to play in your dream set list?