Last Days of the Century (1988)
The journey of listening to Al Stewart's "Last Days of the Century" is going to be unlike anything you’ve heard from him before. In a sense, it is still very much Al. This is what we love and why we love him, but this record really dips it’s feet into a lot of the synth heavy production that defined the mid to late 1980s.
“Last Days of the Century” starts off atmospheric and ethereal. Immediately there is an atmospheric embrace, subtle guitar picks, and Alan Parson’s Project-worthy builds. The steady driving rhythm captures that unmistakable '80s Al vibe, blending new wave synths with classic song structures. Saxophone accents ring hard and loud and make it an irresistible album opener. Transitioning seamlessly, the second track, “Real and Unreal”, immerses you in New Orleans-styled jazz with echoes and reverb accompanying entrancing trumpet play. An eerie dream-like quality sets the tone.
Hints of INXS emerge in the third track, “King of Portugal”, where Al's trademark Spanish guitar meets rich synth accents, creating a fusion that's both nostalgic and fresh. Sometimes even feeling a bit tropical. No time is wasted as “Red Toupee” hits with a fast, upbeat, and irresistibly catchy vibe that lingers long after the last note.
“Where Are They Now” treats us to more of Al's signature Spanish guitar, creating an incredible atmosphere with an upbeat, yet eerie, and dramatic undertone. Unconventional drumming keeps you hooked from start to finish. “Bad Reputation" feels like a song that could fit on Rush’s “Hold Your Fire” record. Shifting gears, this track transports you to the '80s with guitar and synth accents that scream 'Power Windows.' It's a harmonious blend of Al's style with a dash of Rush influence. I can’t get enough of this one.
“Josephine Baker" is a quintessential Al Stewart track - a catchy, upbeat narrative woven with fantastic orchestration, guitar picking, and an all-encompassing storytelling charm. “License to Steal" - Almost feels like a 50’s rock n roll number. Taking a nostalgic turn, this track channels the spirit of '50s rock 'n' roll through a slight '80s lens, delivering pure musical enjoyment. Great organ and horn accompaniment too!
“Fields of France”, the shortest track on the album, whisks you away to the literal fields of France with enchanting flutes, Spanish guitars, and subtle '80s accents. It’s light and delicate, and has a certain richness to it that is very pleasing to listen to. “Antarctica” stands out as one of the album's brightest gems, utilizing the flute as a rock instrument amidst '80s Rush-styled synth accents. The energy, instrumentation, and lyricism come together seamlessly to once again create a song that sounds like it belongs on “Hold Your Fire”.
"Ghostly Horses of the Plain" (Instrumental) - invites you into a dream with a gorgeous, dreamy guitar playing, offering a serene interlude. “Helen and Cassandra" - Story time! Entering Al’s trademark storytelling in track twelve, the flute takes center stage, weaving a mid-tempo narrative where lyrics and music harmonize to transport you to the story's setting. “Ghostly Horses of the Plain" (Demo - Full Band) is quite nice. Revisiting the dreamy instrumental, now complemented by added lyrics and more instrumentation, is still an acoustic ballad. Al brings it with some serious guitar picking that never falls flat.
“Ten Cents" potentially dips into the harpsichord at the solo break? This song doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it's a bright and feel-good Al Stewart song. The keyboards and guitar filters are solid and clean, offering an enjoyable listening experience. Closing on a high note, “Dreaming” kicks off with bouncy piano playing, accompanied by gorgeous string arrangements. It's a dreamy love song with a slower mid-tempo, enriched by the satisfying and innovative use of the oboe, which I am always a sucker for.
As the final chords of "Last Days of the Century" fade away, Al Stewart's ability to evolve his sound and stay true to himself stands evident. The album's diverse tracks, each unique sonically, capture the essence of '80s music while putting Al's timeless storytelling on display. It's a journey worth taking, one track at a time with no skips. That’s right. Al has returned to the NSA list!
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Highlight Songs:
Last Days of the Century
Antarctica
Bad Reputation
Helen and Cassandra
King of Portugal
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Own it. Own it. Own it. Simple. Late 1980’s No Skip Album from the King, Al Stewart. If you must, stream it, but own it if you can. Don’t you dare skip it. I’m watching you.
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Overall Rating:
5 Stars
