Elton John - Leather Jackets (LP)

Elton John's 1986 album Leather Jackets is often regarded as a curious entry in his extensive discography. Released during a period of personal and professional challenges for the artist, the album reflects a time of transition and experimentation, though it has not always been met with the same acclaim as some of his earlier or later works. Nevertheless, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Elton John's creative process during the mid-1980s.

Leather Jackets was produced by Gus Dudgeon, a long-time collaborator of Elton John, and features contributions from lyricist Bernie Taupin, who has been a cornerstone of Elton's songwriting throughout his career. The album's production is very much of its time, with a heavy reliance on synthesizers and electronic instrumentation, which were hallmarks of the 1980s music scene. While this approach may have dated the album somewhat, it also situates it firmly within the context of its era.

The title track, "Leather Jackets", opens the album with a bold and brash energy, setting the tone for what is to come. Tracks like "Slow Rivers", a duet with Cliff Richard, showcase Elton's ability to collaborate effectively with other artists, blending their styles into something unique. "Heartache All Over the World" was released as a single and, while it didn't achieve massive chart success, it remains a catchy and upbeat number that captures the pop sensibilities of the time.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Paris", a ballad that highlights Elton's talent for crafting emotive and melodic songs. The lyrics, penned by Bernie Taupin, evoke a sense of longing and romance, and Elton's performance brings them to life beautifully. Another notable track is "Angeline", which has a rockier edge and showcases Elton's versatility as a performer.

Despite its moments of brilliance, Leather Jackets has often been criticised for its lack of cohesion and for not reaching the heights of Elton John's best work. Some of the production choices, while innovative at the time, have not aged as gracefully as those on his classic albums. However, it's important to view the album within the context of Elton's career. The mid-1980s were a challenging time for him, both personally and professionally, and Leather Jackets reflects some of those struggles.

In retrospect, Leather Jackets serves as an interesting chapter in Elton John's musical journey. While it may not be his most celebrated work, it still contains moments that remind us of his immense talent and his ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape. For fans of Elton John, the album offers a deeper understanding of his evolution as an artist and is worth revisiting for its unique place in his discography.