Paul McCartney, Egypt Station – Review

by Donald Rumpert

Paul McCartney is not showing any signs of slowing down, his latest endeavor Egypt Station just released on September 7, 2018 is a fine outing. Egypt Station is the eighteenth solo studio album by Paul McCartney, released by Capitol Records and produced by Greg Kurstin, with the exception of one track produced by Ryan Tedder. The album is McCartney’s first studio release on Capitol since 2005’s Chaos and Creation in the Backyard, and it is the first release since his 2013 album New.  The name Egypt Station is shared by one of McCartney’s paintings from 1988, from which the cover art is derived.  McCartney states “I liked the words ‘Egypt Station.’ It reminded me of the ‘album’ albums we used to make… ‘Egypt Station’ starts off at the station on the first song and then each song is like a different station. So, it gave us some idea to base all the songs around that. I think of it as a dream location that the music emanates from.”

“I Don’t Know,” is one of the singles released in June of 2018.  A reason to celebrate as McCartney delivers that great songwriting we have all become accustomed to and rely on. Resonating hooks with no tricks, just like an old friend whispering in your ear, the simplicity of lyrics carry you through and linger deep within our soul.

“Fuh You,” offers a cheeky side of McCartney clearly feeling feisty.   McCartney teamed with Grammy-winning hitmaker Ryan Tedder for “Fuh You.” The song has a cool harpsichord lacing line, affected helium sounding backing vocals and catchy rhythms, as the former Beatle laments meeting a lover.

Another highlight track is “Come On To Me.” McCartney once again shows his saucy frisky side.  It was the first single previewing his new album, Egypt Station.  Reminiscent of “Why Don’t We Do It In The Road?” and “Hi, Hi, Hi,” we get a healthy serving of rock randiness. A grooving bass line rings in the ear, recalling the powerful resonance of “Come Together.” Cleary Nancy Shevell, has rejuvenated the spirited side of McCartney as his boyish playfulness shines through.

Hard to pick the best track, pretty much – but do we need to, can’t we just savor the entire album this 76-year-old hitmaking icon has put forth and marvel at the fact he’s still got it!