Goodbye Yellow Brick Road - Elton John

I'm convinced that nearly every American or Britain who listens to music at all has heard an Elton John song. I'd also say that most people have heard many Elton John songs. A lot of us could even sing you most of his hits word-for-word. My point is that Sir Elton John is an extremely recognizable artist, and one who's accomplishments won't soon be forgotten. With an astounding 29 studio albums (17 of which are certified at platinum or higher!!!), he's certainly made his impact upon the music world. Today, I want to talk a little bit about his best-selling album, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
The first track on the album is a two-part epic entitled "Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding." The synth dirge is a very interesting way to set up the album. It quickly evolves into a very upbeat, piano pop/rock tune. It's a pretty cool song in its entirety. I also recommend listening to the Dream Theater cover of this song on their EP, A Change of Seasons. Tracks 2 and 4 of this album are two of my very favorite Elton John songs, "Candle In The Wind" and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." Both are wonderful ballads that will have you singing along in no time. I think my favorite thing about these songs, and a lot of his work in general, is the writing. It's been said that "nobody writes a melody like Elton" and I have to agree. Also, although I write on and on about epics and lengthy songs, it's worth noting that I admire the title track of this album for its brevity. With two verses and two refrains, it has its moment, and it moves on. Perfect.
You may have noticed that I skipped track 3, "Bennie and the Jets." I meant no disrespect, as it is a great tune. What I really dig about it is the backhanded groove that comes out in the vocals and drums. It's balanced nicely by the syncopated piano hits. Give it a listen; I think you'll agree.
The next track, "This Song Has No Title," starts what I consider to by the crowning glory of the album: it's flow. This song takes the foundation of the opening ballads, and starts to pick up the tempo. From there, the next few tracks continue in that vein, including "Jamaica Jerk-Off" which is a fun little reggae tune.
Shifting again, Elton heads dips into the blues for a few tracks. Be sure to check out "I've Seen That Movie Too." It's got a dragging, down-n-out feel that I absolutely love. I don't want to give away the whole album, but it starts to take a turn toward rock, climaxing with "Saturday Night's Alright For Fighting." Then, after some Western-styled songs, it ends with "Harmony," which takes us back to the ballad feel of the beginning of the album.
Overall, they album has something for everyone. If you're a fan of any Elton John song, you're gonna find that this album is a great way to start listening to some deeper tracks. I hope you love it as much as I do. Happy Listening!

Free link to the album on Napster:
http://free.napster.com/view/album/index.html?id=10797868