Album Info
| Artist: | Elton John |
| Album: | Honky Chateau |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | Worldwide, 24 Mar 2023 |
Tracklist:
| 1 | Original Album | |
| A1 | Honky Cat | |
| A2 | Mellow | |
| A3 | I Think I'M Going To Kill Myself | |
| A4 | Susie (Dramas) | |
| A5 | Rocket Man | |
| B1 | Salvation | |
| B2 | Slave | |
| B3 | Amy | |
| B4 | Mona Lisa And Mad Hatters | |
| B5 | Hercules | |
| 2 | Honky At The Chateau (Session Demos) | |
| C1 | Salvation | |
| C2 | Susie (Dramas) | |
| C3 | Rocket Man (I Think It's Going To Be A Long, Long Time) | |
| C4 | Mellow (Session Demo) | |
| C5 | Slave (Alternate "Fast" Version) | |
| D1 | Honky Cat | |
| D2 | I Think I'M Going To Kill Myself | |
| D3 | Hercules | |
| D4 | Slave |
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)
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- Happy Listening!
Description
Elton John's "Honky Château", released in May 1972, stands as a pivotal moment in the artist's illustrious career. This album marked a transition for Elton, both musically and in terms of his growing global popularity. Recorded at the Château d'Hérouville in France, the album's title pays homage to the studio's nickname, and the setting seems to have inspired a sense of creativity and freedom that permeates the record.
"Honky Château" is often celebrated for its eclectic mix of styles, showcasing Elton John's versatility as a musician and Bernie Taupin's evocative lyricism. The album opens with "Honky Cat", a playful, New Orleans-inspired track that immediately sets a lively tone. Its infectious rhythm and brass arrangements make it a standout, and it remains a fan favourite to this day. Then there's "Rocket Man (I Think It's Going to Be a Long, Long Time)", arguably one of Elton's most iconic songs. This track captures a sense of longing and introspection, with Taupin's lyrics painting a vivid picture of isolation and wonder. Elton's delivery, paired with the lush production, makes it a timeless classic.
The album doesn't stop there. Tracks like "Mellow" and "Susie (Dramas)" highlight Elton's ability to blend genres seamlessly, while "Salvation" and "Amy" showcase the depth of his and Taupin's songwriting partnership. The closing track, "Hercules", is a fun and energetic number that leaves the listener on a high note.
One of the remarkable aspects of "Honky Château" is its production. Gus Dudgeon, who had worked with Elton on previous albums, returned as producer, and his touch is evident throughout. The use of the Château d'Hérouville studio added a unique character to the recordings, with its relaxed atmosphere and state-of-the-art equipment of the time. The album also marked the first time Elton's touring band—Davey Johnstone on guitar, Dee Murray on bass, and Nigel Olsson on drums—played on one of his studio albums, adding a cohesive and dynamic energy to the music.
"Honky Château" was both a critical and commercial success. It became Elton John's first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 chart in the United States, solidifying his status as a global superstar. The album's success was a testament to Elton and Taupin's growing confidence and ambition, as well as their ability to connect with audiences on a profound level.
Looking back, "Honky Château" is a landmark album in Elton John's discography. It captures a moment of artistic growth and experimentation, while also delivering some of his most enduring songs. It's an album that invites listeners to explore its many layers, from the exuberance of "Honky Cat" to the introspection of "Rocket Man." For fans of Elton John, "Honky Château" is an essential listen, and for those new to his music, it's a perfect introduction to his genius.
