Absolute Radio: Discover real music

A complete surprise, even after the critical acclaim for his last two albums. Elegiac, moving, exciting, intelligent, muscular, and a match for the 1970-76 classics, track for track. Not so much a follow-up to `Captain Fantastic' as a career retrospective. After the lost years between `Blue Moves' and `Songs from the West Coast' this, the third album of Elton's triumphant artistic renaissance, is a joy from start to finish, and a heart-warming relief to those who watched the drama queen of pop's decline and fall in the 80s and 90s. The now-limited vocal range and huskier tone is finally used to good effect, creating the impression of an older and wiser artist who may just finally have come to terms with his demons and regained his greatness in the process.

Rating: 5 out of 5

"We stuck around for the battle/Waiting for a plan/To turn you into a brown dirt cowboy/And me into a rocket man"

This matches Songs from the West Coast in excellence. The lyrics and melodies are the best Elton and Bernie have ever created. If this was their last album - which is always possible - then it will be an exceptionally beautiful curtain call.

Rating: 5 out of 5

I just love this CD.I'm playing it at the moment so thought it time I gave it its very worthy 5 stars.
I'm surprised its not been more widely received as it deserves all the praise it deserves.
I love Eltons piano playing on 'And The House Fell Down' but love all the tracks.
Well recommended.

Rating: 5 out of 5

What a great album! As a younger fan of Elton's who wasn't around in the 70's I hate this usual idea that he heasn't written an album of quality since then. Songs from the West Coast was good as was Peachtree Rd but this tops the lot. The highlights are Tinderbox, Blues Never Fade Away, The Bridge and The Captain and the Kid. I would argue that this is better than the original Captain Fantastic album of 1975. It a must have for any music fan.

Rating: 5 out of 5

It's back to the '70s, with a twist. This is a fabulous album in every respect. If you had written Elton off as a has-been you'd better think again. Superb

Rating: 5 out of 5