Published on Apr 28, 2006
Though I’ve always appreciated Elton John’s music, I
only own a few of his albums — one being a greatest hits
compilation. Embarrassing, but on the bright side, it does allow me
to view his latest effort, Peachtree Road, unbiased and
separate from the rest of his expansive career.
Peachtree opens with the optimistic “Weight Of
The World”; its chorus (“Happy today, happy to play / With the
weight of the world off of my back”) depicts Elton finally free and
content in his own life. It’s a strong beginning, and just as
catchy and enjoyable as earlier Elton hits.
Next up is the country flavored “Porch Swing In
Tupelo,” featuring standout backing from long-standing sidemen,
drummer Nigel Olsson and guitarist Davey Johnstone. My only qualm
with this track is that though the music is fantastic, the lyrics
leave a lot to be desired. Lines like “And this place don’t change
/ Some places move slow / I’m just rocking myself on this porch
swing in Tupelo” just don’t seem to ever go anywhere.
Similar to “Porch Swing” is “Turn The Lights Out When
You Leave,” and later, “They Call Her The Cat.” If you’re a fan of
loose, twangy country, the former will suit you, but both sound
like filler to me. Though “They Call Her The Cat” features some
great brass, the too-goofy-to-be-a-rocker track seems out of place
(the meowing near the end doesn’t help matters either).
“Answer In The Sky,” the U.S. single, continues in
the earlier hopeful, optimistic vein, and knowing the struggles in
Elton’s career, it’s particularly poignant. I find that it does toe
a fine line between inspiring and cheesy, but it’s enjoyable
nonetheless. The single across the pond, “All That I’m Allowed,”
hits a comparable note; it’s a slightly unremarkable ode to a
higher power. Listenable, but nothing in it that’s particularly
captivating.
Next, “My Elusive Drug” is a highlight of the album
with its highly personal lyrics and passionate delivery on Elton’s
part. It harkens back to “Mellow” from Honky Chateau, and it
turns out to be a mature, introspective look back on years of
“cheap thrills,” as Bernie Taupin puts it; it results in being one
of the songs on Peachtree that’s notably solid
throughout.
Another standout is “It’s Getting Dark In Here,” one
that veers from the initial uplifting message to decidedly darker
lyrics like “Sometimes I feel I’m on fire / I’ve been handed a
curse and a blessing.” It’s one of my favorites on
Peachtree, especially because it seems more genuine than the
preachy tendencies of earlier tracks while retaining the signature
details that make Elton’s work brilliant.
Peachtree Road was hailed as a comeback for
Elton John, and while I don’t know if it succeeds entirely, it
proves to be a satisfying release from one of music’s most enduring
figures.