Album Info
| Artist: | Elton John |
| Album: | Caribou |
| Released: | Europe, 21 Jul 2017 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | The Bitch Is Back | |
| A2 | Pinky | |
| A3 | Grimsby | |
| A4 | Dixie Lily | |
| A5 | Solar Prestige A Gammon | |
| A6 | You're So Static | |
| B1 | I've Seen The Saucers | |
| B2 | Stinker | |
| B3 | Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me | |
| B4 | Ticking |
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Description
Elton John's "Caribou", released in June 1974, stands as a fascinating entry in the artist's prolific discography. Coming off the back of the monumental success of "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", "Caribou" had big shoes to fill, and while it may not reach the same heights as its predecessor, it still offers a collection of tracks that showcase Elton John's versatility and the strength of his collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin.
Recorded in a relatively short span of time at the Caribou Ranch in Colorado, the album reflects a period of intense creativity and productivity for Elton John. The recording sessions were reportedly rushed, as Elton and his band were under pressure to deliver the album quickly. Despite this, "Caribou" features some standout moments that have become staples in Elton John's career.
The album opens with "The Bitch Is Back", a rollicking, high-energy track that has become one of Elton's signature songs. Its brash, unapologetic attitude, paired with a driving rock arrangement, makes it an unforgettable opener. The song's title and lyrics, penned by Taupin, reflect a cheeky confidence that perfectly matches Elton's flamboyant persona.
Another highlight is "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me", a ballad that has achieved iconic status over the years. The song's emotional depth, combined with Elton's powerful vocal delivery and the lush orchestration, makes it a standout not just on this album but in his entire catalogue. It's a track that has resonated with audiences for decades, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its quality.
While these two tracks are the most well-known, "Caribou" also contains other gems. "Pinky" is a tender, understated love song that showcases a softer side of Elton's music. "Ticking", the album's closing track, is a haunting narrative piece that tells a tragic story with a stark, minimalist arrangement, allowing the lyrics to take centre stage.
Critically, "Caribou" received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics felt that the album lacked the cohesion and polish of "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", and the rushed production schedule may have contributed to this perception. However, the album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in both the UK and the US, and it has since been appreciated for its individual strengths and the quality of its standout tracks.
"Caribou" also reflects the eclectic nature of Elton John's music during this period. From the rock and roll swagger of "The Bitch Is Back" to the introspective storytelling of "Ticking", the album covers a wide range of styles and moods. This diversity is part of what makes Elton John's work so compelling, and "Caribou" is no exception.
In retrospect, "Caribou" may not be considered Elton John's most cohesive or groundbreaking album, but it remains an important part of his legacy. It captures a moment in time when Elton was at the height of his powers, producing music that continues to resonate with fans around the world. For those who appreciate Elton John's artistry, "Caribou" offers a glimpse into his creative process and a collection of songs that, while perhaps uneven, still contain moments of brilliance.
