“Memory Almost Full” marks the 21st album release of Sir Paul McCartney since the dissolution of The Beatles, and he has not lost a step.
It would be natural to assume a McCartney record would contain great pop tunes; however, it is largely the presence of his weighty tracks that solidify the release.
The toe-tapping feel of “Dance Tonight” could make a coma patient dance, and the accompanying mandolin really sets a bluegrass mood which is stabilized by electric guitar all through the track.
“Ever Present Past” is also an upbeat number that discusses McCartney’s memory-filled past and his realization that he spent a lifetime working, with “no time to be a decent lover.” Instrumentally, this track really leans towards the march-like antics of British rock band, Artic Monkeys; demonstrating once again that Mr. M can write how and whatever he pleases. The third cut on the record “See Your Sunshine” begins with a disco-like melody that permeates the feel of the whole track, making you want to do the electric slide right there behind the wheel of your 4-door Camry. Lyrically, Paul discusses love like the Beatles of old; finding it hard to mask the excitement of butterflies in his stomach. Four clicks deep into “Memory Almost Full,” McCartney explodes into a blues rock based “Mama Only Knows” which proves that Paul at age 64 can still rock harder and with more passion than most of the music industry.
One of the more grounding songs on the record, “Mr. Bellamy” will have fans of “Eleanor Rigby” jumping for joy as its string section creates a distinct eeriness opposite the melody carried by the keys. Perhaps the most refreshing aspects of “Mr. Bellamy” and of the album is McCartney’s experimentation with new sounds/production; his genius sonically evolving rather than stalling in the past.
“Gratitude” is infused with heart-felt lyrics paying homage to a lost one, perhaps the late Linda McCartney. The song, while poignant and reflective, exudes an electric positivity in its catchy instrumentation.
The bubbly “That Was Me” depicts McCartney flipping through a photo album reminiscing about the good times and the bad times, enjoying every bit of it. The tune has driving percussion and a delta bluesy guitar riff that will have you slapping your knee in no time.
Three of the last four cuts off the album are a bit slower in tempo; however, this is where Sir Paul McCartney’s song craftsmanship really shines. “Feet in the Clouds,” “House of Wax,” and the “End of the End” really benefit from multiple listens as their heavier subject matter and the beautiful orchestrations take away from one another.
And in classic good time’s fashion, “Memory Almost Full” concludes with an up-tempo pop number that contrasts well with the gravity of the album’s final cuts.
McCartney still crafts a wonderful record and this release is proof. Pick up this album for a rollercoaster of emotion and “grade A” song-writing.
