Album Info
| Artist: | Elton John |
| Album: | A Single Man |
| Released: | Worldwide, 2 Sept 2022 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Shine On Through | |
| A2 | Return To Paradise | |
| A3 | I Don’t Care | |
| A4 | Big Dipper | |
| A5 | It Ain’t Gonna Be Easy | |
| B1 | Part-Time Love | |
| B2 | Georgia | |
| B3 | Shooting Star | |
| B4 | Madness | |
| B5 | Reverie | |
| B6 | Song For Guy |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne, Australia (North of Northcote, between Thornbury & Reservoir)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
- You can also pick up your order in store, just select Local Pickup at the checkout.
- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
- We ship vinyls in thick, rigid carboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- In stock vinyl is usally shipped next business day, please check the availability field at the top of the product page to see whether the record is currently in stock or if it is available from the supplier as well as estimated shipping times.
- If you order an in stock item together with a pre order or back order (listed as available from supplier rather than in stock) then the order will be shipped together when all items arrive. If you would like the in stock items shipped first please place two separate orders or contact us to arrange shipping items separately.
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
Elton John's 1978 album A Single Man marks a significant moment in his illustrious career. It was his first album without long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin as the primary lyricist, with Gary Osborne stepping in to fill the role. This change in partnership brought a fresh dynamic to the music, and the album stands as a testament to Elton's ability to adapt and evolve as an artist.
The album opens with "Shine on Through", a heartfelt ballad that sets the tone for the introspective and personal nature of the record. Elton's piano work is as emotive as ever, and Osborne's lyrics complement the music beautifully. The production, handled by Elton himself alongside Clive Franks, is clean and focused, allowing the songs to shine without unnecessary embellishments.
One of the standout tracks is "Song for Guy", an instrumental piece that closes the album. Written as a tribute to a young messenger boy who worked at Elton's record label and tragically passed away, the song is hauntingly beautiful. Its repetitive melody and minimalist arrangement create a meditative atmosphere, showcasing Elton's talent for conveying deep emotion through his music.
"Part-Time Love" and "Return to Paradise" are other highlights, with the former being a catchy, upbeat tune that became a hit single. The latter has a breezy, tropical feel that adds variety to the album's overall sound. Throughout the record, Elton's vocals are strong and expressive, demonstrating his versatility as a performer.
While A Single Man may not have reached the same commercial heights as some of Elton's earlier works, it was well-received by critics and fans alike. It represents a period of transition for Elton, both personally and professionally, and offers a glimpse into his resilience and creativity. The album's themes of reflection and renewal resonate deeply, making it a rewarding listen for those willing to explore its subtleties.
In retrospect, A Single Man holds a unique place in Elton John's discography. It may not be as immediately recognisable as albums like Goodbye Yellow Brick Road or Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy, but it has a charm and sincerity that make it worth revisiting. For fans of Elton's music, it's a reminder of his enduring artistry and his ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.
