Happy 27th Birthday To "Sleeping With The Past"
Today, August 29th, 2016, we celebrate the 27th birthday for Elton John's 22nd studio album and arguably one of the best studio albums he as ever recorded: Sleeping With The Past. It was recorded from November and December of 1988 and released in the summer of 1989.
The album is approximately 10 years older than I- making this a little awkward for me to discuss and "remember" such an older album in time- but this is exactly a situation that proves Elton John's music is timeless and will be remembered and celebrated for a very, very long time. This day is very special to me. Although I was not there to experience the hype and commotion over his "new" album when it was released, I certainly have a good idea of what was going on through people's minds as they purchased the record, placed it on their record machines, and pressed down the needle. Sleeping With The Past, in my humble opinion, is definitely without a doubt my favorite album of Elton John's. If you're not familiar with this beautiful work of art, let me explain.
Lets face the facts here: Sleeping With The Past is considered one of Elton best albums of the 1980s, alongside Two Low For Zero. It was his highest-selling studio album in the UK; certified 3x Platinum. In fact the song "Sacrifice" charted all the way to the top for 26 weeks in France, and #1 the UK, making this song his first solo #1 single in the UK Singles Chart. Pretty incredible. Bernie Taupin even stated that he thought "Sacrifice" was one of the best songs he and Elton had ever written. (If you're not impressed yet, it's because you're experiencing utter shock and amazement.)
This is one of his strongest albums and it holds a very special meaning to me. What you first notice about the album and many of the songs on it is the tone. It seems to bring an end to the 80s and suggests a new, uplifting, and inspiring impression for the new decade. It's quite different than anything he has ever recorded previously. Sleeping With The Past has a certain feeling and mood to it that captivates you and leaves you begging for more. The album is a sort of "throwback" and dedication to the R&B music of the 1960s and 70s that inspired both Elton and Bernie. This is especially obvious in the song "Stones Throw From Hurtin'" in which Elton uses a falsetto and whispers into the microphone, achieving similar vocals to JJ Cale. It was intended to be a tribute to Marvin Gaye.
The album is a true collection of one-of-a-kind and original new songs by Elton John. I personally cannot get enough of each song- I crave each and every one of them. Each time I listen to Sleeping With The Past, I am reminded of the overall maturity of the music and lyrics. In a way, this album sort of serves as a final goodbye to Elton's wild days along with Reg Strikes Back. Though unlike Reg Strikes Back, the album seems much more serious and intense in its manner. You can tell that Elton is striving for a brand new, fresh sound to fit his new image. With the closing of the decade, Elton had put aside most of his funky, silly clothing, accepted he was now in his 40s, and was ready to take on what new things his life had to offer. Actually, very soon after this album was released, Elton's friend Ryan White died in 1990- which not only inspired him to begin his AIDS Foundation- but also helped him clean up his act. Yes kids, Elton had finally ended his painful, bittersweet relationship with cocaine. Don't do drugs!
Overall, Sleeping With The Past receives a 172/240 rating for me, making this my favorite album of Elton John's (and also my very first album I got of his)! Believe me, that's a very generous rating from me since I am highly critical and analytical of the music I listen to! I would also like to rate each song on the album in order from which I like best to least; bonus tracks included.
Song: Durban Deep
Music: 8/10
Lyrics: 7/10
Comments: Took a while to catch on to me but I was hooked when I kept listening to the ever-so-changing musical instrumentation. The song has the potential to get stuck in your head, especially the pounding drums which were meant to act like a "drill and hammer". Beautiful reverb on Elton's voice throughout the song which gives the impression that you are in a cave or tunnel. Especially love how he says "d-d-da- durban deep" at the end. Overall: 15/20
Song: Heeling Hands
Music: 9/10
Lyrics: 9/10
Comments: Love-hate relationship with the key change in this song. The chords in the chorus are strange, however, yet some how manage to loop back to the chords in the verses effortlessly. Lyrics are easily relatable and one of the best to appear on the album. Intense piano solo heightens the song and I simply adore the "whoo hoo, rock me now" part. I wish it was longer. Extreme ending. Overall: 18/20
Song: Whispers
Music: 7/10
Lyrics: 5/10
Comments: Interesting drumming on this track. A little redundant for a slower song. The simple piano solo could be better but does add pleasant, delicate ending to the song. Great long ending. Overall: 12/20
Song: Club At The End Of The Street
Music: 5/10
Lyrics: 6/10
Comments: Lyrics definitely paint a picture in your head. Music is catchy but the chorus can get quite repetitious. Good simple song to lift up your moods. Overall: 11/20
Song: Sleeping With The Past
Music: 10/10
Lyrics: 10/10
Comments: Generally an overlooked song, despite it being the album's title! The lyrics are more of a lesson, and an inspiring "get up and move on" theme is carried throughout the song. The music is very active, vigorous, and fresh. Interesting chords, voicings, and progression. Organ solo is a charming touch, as well as the horn section which mimics the guitar at certain parts. Overall: 20/20
Song: Stones Throw From Hurtin'
Music: 9/10
Lyrics: 9/10
Comments: Guitar is especially catchy and is added strategically throughout the song; simple guitar solo yet manages to keep you dancing. Elton's voice is a pleasant shocker and showcases his singing rather than piano playing, which is an unusual but cool idea. Lyrics hold a deeper meaning than what is initially expected on the first listen or two. Overall: 18/20
Song: Sacrifice
Music: 7/10
Lyrics: 8/10
Comments: Deep message and song. Soulful singing on Elton's part, and impressive lyrics from Bernie! Chord progression has become a classic and never fails to catch your attention. The melody is iconic- the piano makes a bold statement throughout thought the song. The music speaks for itself. Overall: 15/20
Song: I Never Knew Her Name
Music: 8/10
Lyrics: 6/10
Comments: The song gives you the feeling as though you are literally the wedding the narrator is at. The music very overwhelming in a good way- you will definitely not be bored with this track. Overall: 14/20
Song: Amazes Me Music: 5/10
Lyrics: 7/10
Comments: Nice backing vocals to accompany Elton's deeper and sincere voice. Key change at the bridge adds a wonderful touch as well as the unexpected guitar solo. Fantastic rocking ballad.
Overall: 12/20
Song: Blue Avenue
Music: 9/10
Lyrics: 7/10
Comments: Classic Bernie Taupin lyrics. The music will give you an eargasm! Intensity builds from the long piano intro to the subtle horns to the powerful drums midway through. Compelling guitars. Overall: 16/20
Song: Dancing In The End Zone
Music: 7/10
Lyrics: 5/10
Comments: This upbeat song totally lifts your spirits, as well as the fun and surprisingly relatable lyrics! Horn section adds a refreshing touch and Elton's vocals are strong. Overall: 12/20
Song: Love Is A Cannibal
Music: 6/10
Lyrics: 3/10
Comments: Bass would sound much better louder; recording sounds too monotone and lacks dynamics. Lyrics are super repetitive but the catchy music makes up for it. Excellent dance/action song, as it appears in the movie Ghostbusters II. Overall: 9/20
