Past, Present & Future (1974)
'Past, Present, Future' literally takes you on a journey through time, blending storytelling with folk-rock melodies that walk the line of “progressive folk rock.” The album, with its cover featuring one Doctor Strange, artfully interweaves historical tales with personal introspection, making each track a unique gem unlike anything I have ever heard before, all culminating together to create Al’s first true concept album. A true NSA as well.
The album's opener, 'Old Admirals,' welcomes you with warm, acoustic strums and Al’s vocals, painting a picture of aging sea captains and the passage of time. Accompanied by graceful orchestration, horns, organs, and possibly tubas even. A deeply relaxing track here to start things off.
'Warren Harding' picks up the pace with a catchy rhythm, narrating the story of a former U.S. president of the same name. As to why Al chose to sing of Harding and tell a little story, I am not sure. But it does portray Harding as someone who is quite lonely. It is very Al Stewart-like to take a somber subject and overlay it with upbeat, happier music. This song in particular including Caribbean steel drums.
In 'Soho (Needless to Say),' Al's melodic prowess shines. This version being the original, and the “Soho” version featured as a bonus on the last album was rerecorded in the 1980s with time appropriate influence. This original rendition takes you to the streets of London with its jazzy undertones and 60’s-like harmonies. Littered with organs, a driving drumbeat, and an almost rap-like vocal delivery throughout from Al.
The softer ballad-like song, 'The Last Day of June 1934', is tender and melancholic. Picking up the pace at the halfway point, the energy picks up, the vocals soar, the organ and piano parts run rampant, and the guitar accompaniment is jazzy and full of life. Post World War Two Blues,' serves as the album's upbeat, country blues centerpiece. Shifting between past and present, reflecting on growing up in London post WWII. The twang and energy of this song are infectious and demand toe-tapping from the listener.
'Roads to Moscow' stands out as a magnum opus within the album. Its narrative transports listeners to the Russian front during World War II at the time of the German invasion. As the song progresses, so do the historical events of the war. From the German invasion of Russia to the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Berlin. The song then continues through the eyes of the storyteller who upon returning home after the war was not given the heroes welcome, but rather imprisoned briefly due to suspicion of treason and being a German spy. A lot is covered in this song lyrically, and it is just as impressive musically with the haunting backing melodies and climactic tone.
In 'Terminal Eyes,' the album regains momentum with a backdrop of haunting chords reminiscent of “I Am the Walrus” by The Beatles. The album gracefully concludes with 'Nostradamus,' a piece that reflects on the uncertainties of the future. One of the longest tracks of the album with quite a lengthy instrumental break. The filters experimented with on the acoustic guitar are interesting throughout, and the updated mixing of the track really throws the sound all around.
'Past, Present, Future' is a musical and lyrical triumph that seamlessly threads together history, introspection, and captivating melodies. Al Stewart's masterful storytelling and lyrical prowess shine throughout, inviting you to lose yourself in the rich narratives and intricate harmonies. An NSA for sure.
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Highlight Songs:
Soho (Needless To Say)
Roads To Moscow
Post World War Two Blues
Old Admirals
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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
As a slightly progressive folk-rock album, this should be owned. If you enjoy Al Stewart up to this point then you will love this record. Al is really honing in on his signature sound and Past, Present, Future will demand many replays.
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Overall Rating
4.5 Stars
