TUG OF WAR

TUG OF WAR : With this 1982 offering, Paul's finally back in the saddle. His most satisfying album since "Venus And Mars." With George Martin and his old mate Ringo Starr on board on a couple of tracks, he can't go wrong and he didn't which made this a one stellar album. Maybe the murder of John Lennon did something to him. Paul have always work well amidst chaos and tensed situation. Think "Band On The Run." I tried a few tracks here for my brother who used to be a steadfast Beatles and Paul McCartney fan who got me into this in the first place but he couldn't connect with it. Seems he have given up on Paul a couple of albums back which was a real pity. If only he have listen.

Tug Of War ( McCartney ) : This cool clear version of this song, said to be a reference to his relationship with John Lennon starts off the album splendidly.

Take It Away ( McCartney ) : This a single release have Ringo Starr on drums. Not too great but still a plesant enough track.

Somebody Who Cares ( McCartney ) : I loved this fine ballad. The kind that Paul excelled in. The magic is in full display here.

What's That You Doing ( McCartney / Wonder ) : I don't quite like this funky duet with Steve Wonder. Too overly long and frankly not much sense.

Here Today ( McCartney ) : Paul's heartfelt tribute to his fallen comrade. One could almost sense the sadness and pain in his voice. A classic.

Ballroom Dancing ( McCartney ) This fast joyful track is a treat. One of the many kind of music you can expect from Paul but it's a tab bit too noisy. Still I loved it. A change of pace.

The Pound Is Sinking ( McCartney ) : Another seemingly effortless gem from our man. There are a few melodies here seemingly joined together masterfully by a master in the genre.

Wanderlust ( McCartney ) : This absolute joyful and gorgeous piano driven track is one of my all time favourite from this album and every other Paul McCartney album. It's almost Gospel like. Every time I played this album, I have to repeat this song or even three time. I like it that much.

Get It ( McCartney ) : A  playful turn for Paul and his childhood idol Carl Perkins. Slick and instantly likable. This is country territory and Paul shows he can be a master at it.

Be What You See [ Link ] ( McCartney ) : A short few seconds meaningless throwaway.

Dress Me Up As A Robber ( McCartney ) : The only downer and filler here. Forgivable after the many fine tracks here. This one I skipped.

Ebony And Ivory ( McCartney ) : The big single from here and the message is universal. Trust Paul to come up with the concept and the lyrics is not bad too. Getting Steve Wonder to sing along is a master stroke.

DOP : 9th October 1996.