SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: RINGO STARR – REWIND FORWARD

RINGO STARR
REWIND FORWARD
UME/UNIVERSAL MUSIC

A couple of years ago Ringo Starr made the bold declaration that he was not releasing any further albums, but rather focusing on EPs. Rewind Forward is his fourth, and his best yet. Starr has called on some friends to help him with his new release, but it is clearly Ringo Starr’s project. It has the distinct sound of Starr and lyrically he continues to preach ‘peace and love’, he even shouts it out in the highlight of the CD, “Feeling The Sunlight”.

It opens with “Shadows On The Wall”, which was written by Steve Lukathur and Joseph Williams of Toto fame. Starr has recently contributed to their respective solo albums and Lukathur is a regular with Starr’s All Starr Band. “Shadows On The Wall” is the perfect opening track. Starr’s drum kicks it off, which leads into melodic guitar work. It sets the tone for the four tracks.

This is followed by Paul McCartney’s “Feeling The Sunlight”. McCartney has written for Starr several times in the past, both with The Beatles and as solo artists. He is able to capture Starr’s spirit and his philosophy. “It’s me, checking around, trying to make sure everybody’s safe and sound”. McCartney not only wrote and produced it and sings back-up, but plays zither, bass, keyboards, and guitar. Starr provides the solid back beat. Steve Dudas provides acoustic guitar. It is the highlight of the EP and is wonderful to hear McCartney and Starr together.

Starr co-wrote with his longtime engineer/co-producer and co-writer Bruce Sugar, and produced the title track. It is one of the best songs Starr has ever written.

The EP ends with “Miss Jean” which was written by former Heartbreakers Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench, who also play on the track. It is a straight-ahead rock ‘n’ roll number and includes Starr’s strong vocals and stellar drumming.

Starr is not trying to break new ground with his music, he has already done that, but he is conscious of putting out new, positive, strong, and well-produced music. Starr sounds fantastic, both his drumming and singing. He succeeds on all levels and this is a perfect example of quality music from beginning to the end. And with his message of ‘peace and love’, an EP like Rewind Forward is needed now more than ever.

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