Although I’d like to say that Elton John’s music hasn’t significantly changed in these 40 years since his first album, the changes are drastic and not for the better. We all know Elton John as one of the most iconic rock singers, but his new album Wonderful Crazy Night doesn’t add to this title. Even if you are still a devoted listener to some of his greats, such as “Tiny Dancer” and “Rocketman,” his ten new songs may not be for you.
In his recent album, Elton John’s songs featured fast and upbeat tempos with high pitched and sometimes erratic vocals. Wonderful Crazy Night has more of a country vibe, and the vocals sound nothing like the Elton John I’ve heard before.
“Wonderful Crazy Night”
The namesake of this album isn’t one for the books. He sings, “Someday if you’re asking all about the key to love I’d say that wonderful crazy night.” Although he may be trying to remember some good times, this song just reminds me how much his sound has changed. The beat is happy, but it’s not energetic enough to get you tapping your feet. Maybe my grandma would enjoy this one, but it is definitely not for me.
“Looking Up”
Even though I don’t think I’ll be listening to this song a lot, “Looking Up” was definitely my favorite song on the album. Similarly to the other songs of this album, it had a somewhat country vibe, but it was not as overwhelming. The beat is pretty catchy even if it sounds like he’s recording this in a barn on the countryside, rather than in the studio.
“Free and Easy”
“Free and Easy” is by far the slowest and calmest song on Wonderful Crazy Night. Although it doesn’t lose its country twist, it reminds me more of something you’d listen to sitting by the beach pondering life. Elton John stays true to the easy vibe of the song as he sings, “But I’m free now, free and easy. Freedom’s a breeze, freedom’s a time.”
We may still occasionally hear “Benny and the Jets” on the radio, but after Wonderful Crazy Nights poor reviews, it wouldn’t surprise me or anyone else who has heard the album if these tunes never make it on air.
