Run Devil Run (1999)
Context has arguably never mattered more than it does for this record, which is predominately consisting of covers. One year after the death of Paul McCartney’s wife, Linda, he decides to go back to Abbey Road studios with a multitude of his musical comrades. They together release renditions of the songs that inspired Paul growing up to pursue music of his own, with the accompaniment of three originals done in the style of 1950s rock n’ roll.
This is an album that, in the process of recording, would become therapeutic for Paul in his time of loss and grief. Paul needed to get together, play music that he loved that felt nostalgic, and just have fun. That is exactly what he did. Painted all over Run Devil Run are covers of Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, etc. This record is rock n’ roll at its core. It is blues, it is old fashioned r&b, and it is rockabilly.
I find it difficult to review this album, though, as it is mainly a cover tunes album. You will only like this album depending on whether or not you care for the source material being covered. If you do, then you will appreciate McCartney’s love and care for these songs. Paul sounds just as amazing vocally and musically as he ever has, but again, if you do not care for the source material, then stylistically this album isn’t for you.
This is a great record for the fans and for anyone who is curious to hear anything and everything Paul does. When you know the story behind it and the context of which this album surrounds, you listen to it very differently. It is emotional. It is raw. It is fun. It is pure. That’s what music should be about.
———————————————
Highlight Songs:
Run Devil Run
No Other Baby
Lonesome Town
What It Is
———————————————
Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?
If you are a fan of Paul McCartney then you should own this record. If you are a fan of 1950s rock n’ roll then you should own this album. If you are a fan of any music with rich history, then you should own this album.
———————————————
Overall Rating
4 Stars
