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Paul Weller unearths a rich seam of forgotten treasures on latest album Find El Dorado…with a little help from Noel Gallagher and Robert Plant

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PAUL WELLER: Find El Dorado (Parlophone)

Verdict: Weller strikes gold

Paul Weller, known for being one of the UK’s most esteemed songwriters, has never hesitated to attempt a well-executed cover song. Even during his time leading The Jam in the late ’70s, he gave popular tunes like The Who’s “So Sad About Us” and The Supremes’ “Back In My Arms Again” a dynamic twist, reflecting his affinity for the 1960s mod era.

During The Jam’s transformation into The Style Council, he began to focus on the dance music of the 1980s by performing Joe Smooth’s classic house track “Promised Land”. Since then, his individual career has led him to produce an album titled Studio 150, featuring covers of songs by Noel Gallagher, Bob Dylan, and Sister Sledge – a diverse assortment of tracks that, while surprising perhaps, is not entirely unexpected.

In a surprising twist, his recent album titled “Find El Dorado” delves into less popular tunes from pop, country, and folk genres, stemming from a lifelong passion. While some might claim he’s trying to bypass writer’s block, the deep-rooted affection evident throughout makes that suggestion implausible. After all, these were the songs he grew up with, and the personal connection is palpable.

The album showcases Sung with authentic emotion and teamwork, featuring notable artists like Noel Gallagher, Robert Plant, Declan O’Rourke, and Steve Cradock. This record illuminates some lesser-known events from the 1960s and 1970s, breathing new life into them. Weller explains, “These are songs I’ve held close for years.

Traditional followers might find his quirks off-putting. In White Line Fever, country legend Merle Haggard expresses the solitude of touring life through song lyrics like, ‘I guess I’ll die with this fever in my soul.’ On One Last Cold Kiss, originally by New York rock group Mountain, you can hear sounds reminiscent of a lute. This is a significant departure from The Jam’s Going Underground.

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I’d like to draw your attention to some captivating musical transformations that are currently resonating in the realm of soul and folk-rock.

In another corner of the music universe, Bobby Charles’ Small Town Talk from 1972 is getting a fresh, lively rendition. Willie Griffin’s Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire, with its rhythmic beats, now showcases the soulful voice of Liam Bailey from Nottingham.

Moreover, Lawdy Rolla, a track originally by an enigmatic French group called The Guerrillas, is being reimagined with a powerful gospel spirit. This just goes to show that even the most obscure tunes can find new life in the hands of talented musicians. Enjoy this soulful journey through time and genres!

The most captivating songs explore a dreamy, melancholic thread from 1970s pop music. They include a rendition of the baroque classic “When You Are A King,” which was popularized by the British group White Plains, and a take on Brian Protheroe’s “Pinball” sung by both a singer and an actor.

The eerie 1968 hit “I Started A Joke” by The Bee Gees carries a melancholic, psychedelic vibe, which stands in stark contrast to the dancefloor classics they’d produce a decade later.

Speaking of a change of pace, Duncan Browne’s Journey shines with the addition of Senegalese kora master Seckou Keita, lending a light and airy feel to the music.

The album concludes with a surprising duet: Paul Weller teaming up with Robert Plant from Led Zeppelin on “Clive’s Song,” which was originally sung by folk artist Hamish Imlach. This union of The Modfather and the legendary blues-rock singer works wonderfully, with Plant also playing the harmonica. It’s a creative partnership that has great potential for further exploration — how about Mod Zeppelin as a possible continuation?

 

ALICE COOPER: The Revenge Of Alice Cooper (earMUSIC)

Verdict: Theatrical and nostalgic

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to be back with the remnants of my original band for the first time since we released our albums, “Billion Dollar Babies” and “Muscle Of Love,” way back in 1973. True to form, I’ve delivered on my reputation as the pioneer of shock rock in a new album filled with electrifying guitar solos, moving power ballads, and a fair share of gory, humorous antics.

With Bob Ezrin, the original producer, returning to the project and a ghostly presence from the late Glen Buxton (who passed away in 1997), the music carries a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of classic tracks like “School’s Out” and “Elected”.

As an ardent admirer of the legendary musician Ezrin, I can’t help but marvel at his unwavering dedication during the 1970s when he meticulously honed the band’s unique sound for ten hours a day. However, what truly captivates me is not the sheer volume of time invested, but rather his preference for simplicity over sophistication in their craft. This approach to music creation resonates deeply with me and continues to inspire my own artistic journey.

In a captivating tone, Cooper sings, ‘I’ll merely observe you as you sleep, my love, to determine if I should strike,’ on the album’s debut with Black Mamba. Accompanied by Michael Bruce on guitar, Dennis Dunaway on bass, Neal Smith on drums, and Robby Krieger, formerly of The Doors, the track carries an eerie atmosphere, with Alice portrayed as a seductive, venomous snake.

Beginning thereafter, rock performances intermingle with soft ballads. Alice declares forcefully on Wild Ones, rattling off a series of outlaw stereotypes that seem less convincing when considering he’s now 77 and more likely to be seen golfing or cozily sipping cocoa in bed rather than causing mischief.

In other songs, he muses about the alternate path his life might have taken if he hadn’t become a singer (he believes he would still be creating music, and it likely would have ended his marriage). The track titled “Famous Face” is a reflection on the hollowness of fame (‘you’re as valuable as a dog with fleas’).

On See You On The Other Side, he exhibits a softer hand, offering a tribute ballad to the rock stars he’s lost throughout his journey. In a recent conversation, he mentioned Jim Morrison, Keith Moon, and Jimi Hendrix – now we can include Ozzy Osbourne in that group. As Alice sings, ‘Your rivers went raging by,’ it forms a moving ending for someone who continues to draw inspiration.

Today sees the release of both albums. Tonight at The O2 Arena, London, Alice Cooper and Judas Priest perform (tickets available on ticketmaster.co.uk).

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2025-07-24 21:35

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