Try Anything Once (1993)
‘Try Anything Once’ is the solo album from famed producer and musician Alan Parsons. After producing records for massive bands like The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and his own Alan Parsons Project, Parsons crafted a collection of songs that showcase his technical expertise and top notch songwriting.
As solo records go, ‘Try Anything Once’ is a very strong entry into Alan Parsons’ vast discography. The album opens with "The Three of Me," a sweeping, funky track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. Parsons' rich production values are on full display. The song even shows his creative and quirky side as he lays down “spooky” and “Halloween” like sounds in the middle 8. Go ahead and throw this into your October playlist!
From there, the album moves through a range of moods and genres, from the jazzy, smooth and upbeat "Turn It Up" to the fun and groovy “Wine From The Water”. This style of song I am sure has a name or description, but it’s very similar to Paul McCartney and Wings’ “Wino Junko” or almost anything from the “Dire Straits”.
There is no Alan Parsons record without some instrumental tracks and this album has some of Parsons’ best. “Breakaway” is high energy right out the gate with blistering, driving saxophone hooks and “Dreamscape” is a dreamy Pink Floyd-like guitar journey through the calmest parts of your mind.
‘Try Anything Once’ is not quite a No Skip Album, but it is for sure a triumph for Alan Parsons, demonstrating his versatility as both a producer and a songwriter. Fans of his previous work will find much to love here, while newcomers to his music should be captivated by the album's beauty and complexity. Don’t let go of Alan Parsons just yet. He is still proving he has got some mojo left in the tank!
——————————————
Highlight Songs:
The Three of Me
Wine from the Water
Turn It Up
Dreamscape
Re-Jigue
——————————————
Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
Definitely worth owning this one. It is a solid first solo outing with many, many things to love on it. There is not one bad song on here, but there are a few that are passable. I recommend owning it for sure.
——————————————
Overall Rating:
4 Stars
