Album Info
| Artist: | Rickie Lee Jones |
| Album: | Pirates |
| Released: | Australia, 1981 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | We Belong Together | 4:59 |
| A2 | Living It Up | 6:23 |
| A3 | Skeletons | 3:37 |
| A4 | Woody And Dutch On The Slow Train To Peking | 5:15 |
| B1 | Pirates (So Long Lonely Avenue) | 3:50 |
| B2 | A Lucky Guy | 4:14 |
| B3 | Traces Of The Western Slopes | 8:00 |
| B4 | The Returns | 2:20 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- 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 cardboard mailers with a crushable zone on either side, and for extra safety we bubble wrap the records.
- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- 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
Rickie Lee Jones’ “Pirates” is nothing short of a masterclass in storytelling, filled with raw emotion, intricate character sketches, and the vivid imagery one might expect from a seasoned novelist. Venturing into the realm of jazz, pop, rock, and R&B, this album stands as a testament to Jones' incredible range as a singer-songwriter.
The album opens with the contemplative "We Belong Together," where Jones' distinctive voice weaves a tapestry of emotion, setting the mood for the journey ahead. The track, with its beautifully orchestrated crescendos, underscores Jones’ gift for juxtaposing fragility with power.
The narrative-driven "Living It Up" illustrates her prowess in blending everyday tales with poignant insights. The story of Danny and his life of misdemeanors serves not just as an exploration of character, but also as a reflection on the American dream gone awry.
"Pirates (So Long Lonely Avenue)" stands as a hauntingly melancholic piece, awash with jazzy overtones and somber piano melodies. Jones’ evocative voice channels a deep sense of longing, effortlessly portraying the heartbreak of love lost.
The album isn't just melancholy and introspection. The ebullient "Woody and Dutch on the Slow Train to Peking" presents a lively, finger-snapping rhythm that infuses the album with a burst of energy. Its intricate wordplay and buoyant instrumentals underscore Jones' versatility.
However, it's the poetic lyricism of "Skeletons" that truly exemplifies the album's emotional depth. The song's narrative, revolving around a police shooting, is both intimate and universal. Jones paints a haunting picture, making listeners privy to the internal landscapes of her characters.
Yet, beyond the stories and the poignant lyrics, it’s Jones’ voice that stands out as the album's most potent instrument. Whether she’s belting out a note with sheer force or whispering a fragile confession, her vocal dynamism keeps listeners riveted.
That said, the eclectic nature of “Pirates” might be its only double-edged sword. While the album showcases Jones' vast musical range, it might seem disjointed to those expecting a more cohesive theme or style. The transitions from jazz to pop to rock, though seamless, demand an active engagement from the listener.
Production-wise, the album benefits from a meticulous attention to detail. Each instrument, whether it’s the haunting saxophone in "Traces of the Western Slopes" or the resonant bass in "A Lucky Guy", is given room to breathe, making the album a treat for audiophiles.
In conclusion, “Pirates” is more than just an album; it’s an odyssey. Rickie Lee Jones invites listeners to embark on a journey through a landscape filled with intricate characters, emotive tales, and musical experimentation. It's an album that demands more than just casual listening. It asks listeners to immerse themselves, to lose themselves in its narratives, and to find fragments of their own stories within its tracks. Almost four decades after its release, “Pirates” remains a shining example of Jones' unparalleled artistry and her enduring impact on the music world.
