Elton John's The Captain and the Kid Cd Review

In 1974 Elton John and Bernie Taupin made musical history by releasing the first album to go straight to number one on the Billboard charts the day of its release, out of the box, as they say in the industry. That historic autobiographical album was "Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy." It was truly a masterpiece in every sense of the word. It was to many critics, including myself, Elton's finest hour. It was, and I'll use an old cliché, John's "Sgt. Pepper."

What made this album so different from his previous releases was it was a 'concept' album. It was essentially the story of how Elton (Captain Fantastic) and Bernie (The Brown Dirt Cowboy) his lyricist for nearly 40 years, met, collaborated, and rode the rock 'n' roll rollercoaster together. The lyrics were full of incredible imagery and color, reminiscent of a Picasso. The music flowed and swooped encompassing the lyrics like waves along the beach. It was a smart and intelligent piece of work. There was no pretentiousness. The boys had grown up, and looked fondly back at their humble beginnings.

As all things come to pass, the circle is now complete, though 32 years in the making with the sequel "The Captain And The Kid," on Interscope Records. Gone is the wonderment of the early years. Now, we rejoin the duo on their quest to continue the story. "Captain," is not so much a 'concept' cd as its predecessor. The lyrics are more polished and radio friendly. There was only one 'single' release from "Fantastic," that was the gem and Top 10 smash "Someone Saved My Life Tonight." With this new release, the first single is "The Bridge." It is a look back somewhat on their lives and their partnership together. As the old adage states, 'everything old is new again.'

The first track "Postcards From Richard Nixon," is essentially about their first journey to the states on the "Elton John," tour in 1970 (Elton's show at the Troubadour broke him across the country - rock's new Superstar). The cd takes off from there. There are some diamonds on this release, as well as a surprise or two. "And The House Fell Down," is an eye opening tune about Elton's many conquered addictions (drugs, alcohol, food). It pulls no punches and makes no excuses. "Blues Never Fade Away," is a song for friends no longer here. With a haunting chorus of "And how did we get so lucky, targets on the rifle range."

Another tune that harkens back to their beginnings is "Old 67." It quite a kick to listen to. Taupin's lyrics have never been better, and John, well, he's rarely let me down. If you are a fan of true talent, melody and inspiring lyrics, "The Captain And The Kid," by Elton John is your best bet. With all the pop schlock running around and filing up the charts with disposable and very forgettable tunes, it's nice to run across and artist who has the staying power and talent to continue for another 40 years. Go get 'em Elton. Show the world how it's done.