Paul McCartney has described his 20th solo album, 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane', as a reflection on the past, noting that it's hard to write about anything else. The record, inspired by his childhood in postwar Liverpool and early days with the Beatles, is a nostalgic and insightful addition to his career.
Produced by Andrew Watt, the album showcases McCartney's rejuvenated songwriting. The opening track, 'As You Lie There', is a psychedelic rock song about a schoolboy crush, described as 'quite sexy for an octogenarian'. It contrasts with the misguided attempt at a modern pop hit on his 2018 album.
The album varies from the trippy 'Mountain Top', inspired by Glastonbury Festival, to the romantic 'Ripples in a Pond', dedicated to his wife Nancy Shevell. Beatles fans will enjoy 'Down South', a jaunty rock number about hitchhiking with George Harrison. 'Lost Horizon' is a blues-soaked jam about sounds that evoke memories.
McCartney's first duet with Ringo Starr, 'Home to Us', is a fun, silly pub piano singalong reminiscent of early Beatles songs. The album overall has a playfulness that recalls why McCartney started making music.
Despite concerns about his voice at Glastonbury 2022, McCartney's recent tour and this album prove he remains as electrifying as in his youth. 'The Boys of Dungeon Lane' is a charming reminder of his remarkable staying power.
