By 1976, the immense creativity that had spurred Elton John to record 11 studio albums in under seven years was beginning to show signs of inevitable fatigue. Although initially Blue Moves was summarily dismissed by both critics as well as longtime enthusiasts, the double LP has since gained considerable stature within John's voluminous catalog. While comparisons were inevitable to the landmark two-disc Goodbye Yellow Brick Road song cycle from 1973, most similarities in musical style and content end there. John's band had ...
Read More
By 1976, the immense creativity that had spurred Elton John to record 11 studio albums in under seven years was beginning to show signs of inevitable fatigue. Although initially Blue Moves was summarily dismissed by both critics as well as longtime enthusiasts, the double LP has since gained considerable stature within John's voluminous catalog. While comparisons were inevitable to the landmark two-disc Goodbye Yellow Brick Road song cycle from 1973, most similarities in musical style and content end there. John's band had expanded to include the talents of James Newton Howard (keyboards, orchestral arrangements), Kenny Passarelli (bass), Roger Pope (drums), as well as long-time collaborator Caleb Quaye (guitar) and Davey Johnstone (guitar) and Ray Cooper (percussion) from the "classic" early-to-mid-'70s lineup. As the title suggests, Blue Moves is a departure from the heavier Rock of the Westies (1975). Instead, the album purposefully focuses on moodier and more introspective songs, such as the single "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word" (the effort's sole hit), the achingly poignant "Tonight," and "Cage the Songbird." (The latter is particularly noteworthy, recalling the life of Edith Piaf in much the same way that "Candle in the Wind" had immortalized Marilyn Monroe.) "One Horse Town," which John briefly revived as a dramatic show opener during late-'80s live performances, is one of the album's most powerful and straight-ahead rockers. The lively string arrangement by Howard stands as one of the finest contributions to his short-lived tenure in this band, which for all intents and purposes dismantled after the album was recorded. Other standouts include the full-tilt gospel vibe of "Boogie Pilgrim," featuring backing vocals from both the Cornerstone Institutional Baptist and the Southern California choirs under the direction of Rev. James Cleveland, "Crazy Water," the haunting ballad "Idol," and the set's closing R&B vamp, "Bite Your Lip (Get Up and Dance!)." While Blue Moves is a far cry from essential entries in the Elton John catalogue, the bright moments prove that he could still offer up higher than average material. It's also worth mentioning that this effort marked the end of John's initial collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin, who would resurface some three years later, albeit haphazardly on 21 at 33 (1979). ~ Lindsay Planer, Rovi
Read Less
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Good. Providing great vinyl and media since 1972. All used records are inspected and guaranteed. May have wear and minor issues from previous owner. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very good. Providing great media since 1972. All used discs are inspected and guaranteed. Cases may show some wear. We ship orders daily and Customer Service is our top priority!
Choose your shipping method in Checkout. Costs may vary based on destination.
Seller's Description:
Very Good/Fine. Size: 0x0x0; Cover shows light shelf wear. Both records are like new. NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING OR PRIORITY SHIPPING AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITEM. MCA, . Vinyl Record First Edition. Fine/Very Good.
![Blue Moves [2 Lp]](https://www1.alibris-static.com/cover/26405aeh50_t.jpg)
![Honky Chateau [Bonus Track]](https://www2.alibris-static.com/honky-chateau-bonus-track/cover/s47294f80re.jpg)
![Rock of the Westies [Bonus Tracks]](https://www3.alibris-static.com/rock-of-the-westies-bonus-tracks/cover/f59036t4lmw.jpg)
