Caribou (1974)
Caribou is a an interesting record that showcases both the highest highs of Elton's early career and a glimpse into his more unrefined side. It's a rollercoaster of highs and experimental tracks, where moments of sheer showmanship are interspersed with those that could use a touch more polish.
The album kicks off with the iconic The Bitch Is Back, a fiery opener with a red hot guitar riff and Elton's bold, sassy attitude. His dynamic vocals and piano playing infuse the track with infectious energy, making it an unforgettable start to the record and one of Elton’s most fun songs in his catalog. Pink takes an introspective turn, with poignant lyrics that highlight Elton's emotive singing in this mid-tempo ballad. The memorable piano walk-down and gorgeous backing harmonies add much depth to the track.
Grimsby injects many doses of infectious energy with its catchy chorus and rhythmic groove. While it might not be a lot of peoples standout on the album, it's a personal favorite of mine, exuding playfulness that's hard to resist. Elton’s signature backing harmonies shine through. Dixie Lily introduces a touch of Southern charm with its country-flavored melody. While the train horn whistle at the beginning may seem distracting and childish at first, don't write it off too quickly. It's a light, twangy number that grows on you with each listen. Although I will say this song and the next keep Caribou from being a No Skip Album. Solar Prestige a Gammon may initially appear skippable, but its quirky, fun elements reveal themselves with repeated listens. Elton's comical lyrics and catchy synth parts add an unexpected charm and I find myself loving the song more and more on each listen. That being said, I’m going to backtrack my last statement. These two songs may keep it of your No Skip Album list, but they’ve grown on me so much that I will let Caribou inside the club.
You’re So Static brings back around the rock-infused sound of the record, featuring electric guitars and a driving beat. Dedicated to the static city of New York, Elton carries his bluesy-ness from previous albums to Caribou, with great horn accompaniments and lively piano playing. I've Seen the Saucers takes a thematic departure, embracing space-themed lyrics and ethereal synthesizers. Personally it’s a strong contender for the album's best track. There is just something about Elton and space-themed songs that scratch every itch in my brain. Rocket Man *shakes hand* I’ve Seen the Saucers. So. Damn. Good.
Stinker revs the energy back up with high-octane rock, featuring Elton's blazing piano and fiery vocals. It's a horn-driven boogie that is good for the 70s dance floor. The album's crown jewel, Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, delivers some of Elton's most powerful vocals and emotional depth. It’s a timeless classic that speaks for itself. For sure will be the top contender for what Elton song will play during his in memoriam (hopefully 100 years from now so I don’t have to witness it).
Ticking is a storytelling masterpiece, a cinematic ballad with intricate piano work, deserving more attention than it often gets. Clocking in at just over 7 minutes, Ticking is far underrated. Nobody writes songs like this anymore, and if I’m wrong about that, PLEASE point me in the right direction.
Pinball Wizard is a spirited rendition of The Who's classic, infused with Elton's signature flair and energy. His piano playing is a maelstrom of speed and difficulty, reminiscent to Grey Seal from his last album. Sick City adds another touch of bluesy grit to the record, grabbing attention with its raw energy. With my first listen of Caribou a while ago, Sick City was THE standout song for me. Since then it has fallen down the pecking order, but it remains among my favorites.
Cold Highway closes the album with a reflective, soulful number, complete with Elton’s signature backing melodies and bluesy Caribou stylings. As a bonus, Step into Christmas brings festive cheer, earning a spot among holiday classics. This song is in my Mount Rushmore of Christmas songs and I don’t expect it to get dethroned anytime soon.
To wrap things up, Caribou may dwell in the shadow of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, but it stands as a testament to Elton John's musical brilliance during his “golden age” or his self proclaimed “pre-c*nt era.” This album displays Elton’s versatility, from bold rock anthems to heartfelt ballads and artistic experiments. Each track adds a unique layer to the record, making Caribou a must-listen for fans of high-energy rock and classic Elton ballads alike.
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Highlight Songs:
The Bitch Is Back
Grimsby
I’ve Seen the Saucers
Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
Sick City
Ticking
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Own It, Stream it, Forget about it
I say that any Elton John album during his “golden age” should be owned. I understand that Caribou might not be a No Skip Album for everyone like it now is for me, but there is too much on this record to not at the very least stream it a hundred times. So quit your lolly gagging, didn’t you hear the bitch is back?
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
