Release Date: September 22nd Record Label: Sun Records
Words by Anselm Anderson
For more than fifty years, English singer Paul Rodgers has been a rock icon, selling over 125 million records worldwide. He has blessed us fans with his soulful vocals, performing with legendary bands such as Bad Company and Free. Rodgers returns with his first solo release in 25 years on Friday, September 22nd via Sun Records.
The eight-tracker Midnight Rose was written by himself with the exception of "Livin' It Up" which was co-written by Rodgers and his band’s bassist Todd Ronning, and drummer Rick Fedyk. The album was produced and recorded by his long-time companion, Cynthia and renowned producer Bob Rock at Roper Recording and The Warehouse. I believe this is a lovely addition as it enables Paul Rodgers to compose an intimate and individual album based on his love for blues and soul. This is evident throughout the album, as Rodgers radiates on each track.
The upbeat drums in "Coming Home" resemble ZZ Top, with a man's soulful vocals expressing his happiness to return to his wife. Rodgers exudes confidence with slick guitar licks and an up-tempo rhythm, reminiscent of his prime. He has skillfully chosen a great rhythm section to accompany his vocals, resulting in a fresh and energetic sound. "Photo Shooter" is a modern-day "Shooting Star" with passion and reflection, whilst the title track is an ode to Rodgers' Wife.
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| Photo Credit: Victory Tischler-Blue |
The album has a nice pace to it with no track feeling like a filler, as Rodgers is happy to experiment with different sounds and ideas. "Living It Up" is a tribute to Rodgers' adopted countries' USA and Canada. Rodgers currently lives there with his wife. This is a throwback to the singer's blues and hard rock roots. Midnight Rose takes a melodic route with gospel and soul elements thrown into the mix.
As I may have stated, this album is an opportunity for Rodgers to celebrate his career and personal life by exploring the different sounds and cultures he has experienced throughout his career. The feel-good song "Dance in the Sun" will leave you smiling long afterwards, while the swinging rhythm and blues on "Take Love" is a timely reminder that life is not to be taken for granted.
Finally, "Highway Robber" is a roots song with steel guitar and accordion. It tells the story of a failed robbery and showcases the vocalist's versatility at age 73. Rodgers continues to defy belief with his breathtaking vocals and ability to tell a story through the blues.
"Midnight Rose" is a solid reminder of Rodgers' iconic status in rock, featuring well-composed tracks with roots in rock and blues.
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Pre-save and order the Midnight Rose album and special merchandise HERE.
All songs written by Rodgers with the exception of “Living It Up.”
1. “Coming Home”
2. “Photo Shooter”
3. “Midnight Rose”
4. “Living It Up” (Rodgers, Ronning, Fedyk)
5. “Dance in the Sun”
6. “Take Love”
7. “Highway Robber”
8. “Melting”
You can listen to "Livin' It Up" below via the YouTube Music link.
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