Flowers In The Dirt (1989)

Paul McCartney proves to the critics that he is still THAT guy. After experimenting with the popular sounds and styles of the 1980s, Paul rediscovers his mojo in the incredible Flowers In The Dirt. Teaming up with international art thief, Declan Macmanus—or more commonly known as Elvis Costello—Paul collaborates with another songwriting genius to produce one of the finest albums in his entire solo catalog.

My Brave Face cements the idea that Paul is back. With its catchy melody and infectious energy, it’s clear that he is finding his footing again and bringing some much-needed ambition and love to this record. Rough Ride is an insanely ambitious song that the two dynamite musicians pull off, with complementary and textured uses of synths, funky bass lines, and horn hooks. The back-and-forth dueting with Elvis on You Want Her Too is irresistible. One of my absolute favorite McCartney songs of all time. Their chemistry is palpable, and you can tell that Paul was truly enjoying the music he was creating.

The simpler songs on this record, like the single This One or Distractions, are still incredibly catchy and beautiful. Despite their simplicity, they remain memorable, showcasing McCartney's talent for crafting timeless melodies. For that reason, Paul McCartney receives his SIXTH No Skip Album! The man’s consistency is unreal. If I remember correctly, this may be his final NSA awarded to him, but the jury is still out. We will have to see.

That Day Is Done brings a gospel flair to the mix, co-written with Costello, and shows McCartney's ability to traverse different genres with ease. Put It There is a heartfelt acoustic number, reflecting on family and relationships with a touching simplicity that resonates deeply.

The record isn't just about Paul and Elvis, though. Tracks like "We Got Married," which was originally written during the Press to Play sessions, and Figure of Eight show McCartney's individual brilliance. We Got Married has a lush, expansive production that elevates it, while Figure of Eight is a rock-solid track that highlights Paul's knack for writing engaging and enduring rock songs.

Flowers In The Dirt is the blueprint for how you do a comeback album. It combines Paul’s knack for melody and lyrical depth with a modern sound that still feels fresh today. This album's No Skip status places it on the high pedestal it deserves to be on.

Paul McCartney and Elvis Costello’s partnership on this record brings out the best in both artists. They push each other creatively, resulting in a body of work that stands the test of time. Flowers In The Dirt is not just a return to form for McCartney; it's a masterclass in songwriting and production that reaffirms his place as one of the greatest songwriters in the history of popular music.

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Highlight Songs:

• My Brave Face

• Rough Ride

• You Want Her Too

• We Got Married

• Figure Of Eight

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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?

Do I even have to say it? Any NSA should be owned! So quit waiting around and go out and get a hard copy of this. Stream it until you find it in person, and then like always, play it, love it and whisper sweet things to it.

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Overall Rating

5 Stars