Mick Jagger - She's The Boss (LP) - VG+/VG+

The Rolling Stones frontman's debut solo project, "She's The Boss," hit the airwaves in 1985. It marked an adventurous foray into a somewhat different sonic space than what fans of The Stones had come to expect. While the album does possess the unmistakable Jagger swagger and his signature lyrical witticisms, it also extends into the more polished, synthesizer-heavy sounds that characterized the mid-80s.

The title itself, "She's The Boss," seems indicative of Jagger's intent to display a slight departure from his routine, hinting at a shift in dynamic and perhaps even showcasing a more vulnerable side of the rock icon.

"Lonely at the Top" kicks off the album, a track dripping in the lavishness of '80s synth. Jagger's sardonic take on the perils of fame is as sharp as ever, and his voice, rough and rugged, contrasts beautifully with the smooth production. It's a song that wouldn't feel out of place in a glitzy, neon-lit club of the era.

The funk-infused "1/2 A Loaf" is a testament to Jagger's ability to adapt and evolve with the musical landscape. The rhythm section, featuring the bass talents of Herbie Hancock and guitar riffs from Jeff Beck, lends the track a groovy foundation. Mick, with his inimitable style, brings to it a sense of playful cheekiness.

"Running Out of Luck," arguably one of the standout tracks, melds a reggae-inspired beat with an infectious pop sensibility. The song touches upon themes of romantic frustration, with Jagger lamenting a love gone cold. The chorus, catchy and repetitive, showcases the frontman's knack for crafting earworms.

However, the most significant divergence from The Stones' classic sound can be heard on "Hard Woman." A ballad driven by synthesizers and accompanied by a dramatic music video, it allows Jagger to explore a gentler, more introspective side. The rawness in his voice adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it one of the album's more memorable moments.

While "She's The Boss" did have its fair share of critics, mainly from those who yearned for the more traditional rock sounds of The Stones, it remains an important piece in Jagger's extensive discography. It's a testament to his adaptability as an artist and his willingness to take risks.

The production, predominantly helmed by Bill Laswell, is slick and polished. The album feels very much rooted in its era, with all the trappings of mid-80s rock/pop. However, underneath the shimmering veneer, Jagger's raw energy and charisma shine through, ensuring that the album doesn't feel like just another product of its time.

In hindsight, "She's The Boss" is a snapshot of a period where rock and pop were undergoing significant transformations. It was a time where synthesisers were becoming mainstay instruments, where music videos were increasingly influencing an artist's success, and where rock icons like Jagger were navigating these new waters. In this context, "She's The Boss" is an audacious project, one that captures both the spirit of its era and the timeless allure of one of rock's most enduring figures.

In sum, while "She's The Boss" may not hold the same legendary status as some of The Rolling Stones' albums, it is an essential listen for any Jagger fan. It showcases a different facet of the artist, one that is willing to experiment, to adapt, and to occasionally let down his guard.