Search - Paul McCartney :: Back in U.S.

McCartney Can Still Rock

Lonnie E. Holder | Columbus, Indiana, United States | 09/25/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There is a big difference in viewpoint between those who liked this album and those who did not. The majority who did not like this album complained that it was yet another in a series of live albums for Paul, including his "Wings Over America" album. For those who do not have any of the previous live albums, this one has a lot to offer.



On the plus side, Paul performs very well. The selection of songs is heavily weighted toward The Beatles. However, it may be that Paul has finally come to grips with the early part of his career and, as Paul continues into his sixth decade of life, he may be feeling a lot of nostalgia for the days when he (and we) were younger and created something different and wonderful, and the what-might-have-beens.



I was impressed by the quality of the music throughout. The range of music is from mellow ("Here, There and Everywhere") to rockers ("Band on the Run"). "Live and Let Die" stands out as particularly good. There were many others that were as good. Paul sounds energetic throughout, and his voice is generally strong. Listening to "Back in the USSR" made me feel like I was back in the 60s once again.



The only thing about this album I did not care for was the transition between songs. While I am okay with cutting out a lot of the dialogue and clapping between songs, at least they could have done a fade with the volume instead of just cutting the music off and turning it instantly on. Sometimes the ons and offs are a little distracting.



I am not a big fan of live albums in general. Recently I have been finding that live albums are much better than I remember them, or perhaps I too have become nostalgic and appreciate live albums more. In any case, my collection of live albums is small and so this live album is the first I have from Paul McCartney, and I will be listening to it over and over (actually, I already have, this is a good album).



Note that there are several versions of this album, with varying price and availability. You may wish to survey the available versions and choose the version that best meets your needs.



Enjoy!

"