Elton John and Brandi Carlile: A Creative Fusion
In a dazzling blend of genres and talents, music icons Elton John and Brandi Carlile have joined forces for their collaborative album, 'Who Believes In Angels?'. This project signifies a vibrant turn in their careers, celebrating a dynamic partnership set to leave a mark on their musical legacies. With renowned producer Andrew Watt at the helm, the album was brought to life over 20 intense days at Los Angeles' iconic Sunset Sound Studios. Combining ten tracks that weave through rock, pop, country Americana, and synth-laced psychedelia, the album delivers a rich auditory experience.
The album isn't just about diverse sounds—it's about collaboration. Elton and Brandi took turns leading compositions, accompanied by evocative lyrics from Bernie Taupin and Carlile herself. The tracklist, which includes titles like 'The Rose of Laura Nyro' and 'Little Richard’s Bible', is a testament to their shared musical journey.
A New Chapter in Music
Elton John looks at this album as his 'career Mark 2', suggesting a fresh chapter rooted in collaborative innovation. The environment fostered during recording was described by Carlile as both challenging and inspiring, with team efforts contributing significantly to the project’s evolution.
Adding to the album's allure is a 30-minute documentary, a first for Elton, capturing the essence of the creative process including key breakthroughs and intense studio moments. It gives fans a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of this ambitious project.
To coincide with the album's release on April 4, the duo performed at The London Palladium on March 26, showing off the new music alongside beloved hits from their solo careers. This performance was highlighted in a special CBS broadcast on April 6, and both artists made a memorable appearance on *Saturday Night Live* the previous day, ensuring the album's impact was strongly felt across media platforms.
The album also features notable musicians such as Chad Smith from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, celebrated bassist Pino Palladino, and guitarist Josh Klinghoffer. Together, they form an all-star ensemble that enhances the album’s rich sonic palette. No track exemplifies this more than the title track, released as a single in February, which establishes the thematic and stylistic tone of the album.
'Who Believes In Angels?' isn't just an album; it's a statement. It represents a place for both John and Carlile to explore new sonic territories and push artistic boundaries, with their collaboration heralding an exciting new chapter in their already storied careers. This release is bound to resonate not only with hardcore fans of the artists but also with anyone curious about the intersection of diverse musical worlds.