Caribou (1974)
Caribou is an interesting record that captures both the highest highs of Elton’s early career and a glimpse of his more unrefined side. It’s a rollercoaster of highs and experimental tracks, where moments of sheer showmanship sit right next to ones that could use a touch more polish.
The album kicks off with the iconic The Bitch Is Back, a fiery opener with a red hot guitar riff and Elton’s bold, sassy attitude. His dynamic vocals and piano playing fill the track with infectious energy, making it an unforgettable start and one of the most fun songs in his catalog. Pink takes an introspective turn, its poignant lyrics highlighting Elton’s emotive singing on this mid-tempo ballad. The memorable piano walk-down and gorgeous backing harmonies add real depth.
Grimsby brings doses of infectious energy with its catchy chorus and rhythmic groove. It might not be a lot of people’s standout on the album, but it’s a personal favorite of mine, exuding a playfulness that’s hard to resist. Elton’s signature backing harmonies shine through. Dixie Lily introduces a touch of Southern charm with its country-flavored melody. The train-horn whistle at the beginning may seem distracting and childish at first, but don’t write it off too quickly. It’s a light, twangy number that grows on you with each listen. I will say this song and the next keep Caribou from being a No Skip Album. Solar Prestige a Gammon may seem skippable, but its quirky, fun elements reveal themselves on repeat. Elton’s comical lyrics and catchy synth parts add an unexpected charm, and I find myself loving it more with every listen. That said, I’m going to backtrack. These two songs might keep it off your No Skip Album list, but they’ve grown on me so much that I’m letting Caribou into the club.
You’re So Static brings back the rock-infused sound of the record with electric guitars and a driving beat. Dedicated to the static city of New York, Elton carries his bluesiness from previous albums into Caribou, with great horn accompaniment and lively piano playing. I’ve Seen the Saucers takes a thematic departure, embracing space-themed lyrics and ethereal synthesizers. It’s a strong contender for the album’s best track. There’s just something about Elton and space-themed songs that scratches every itch in my brain. Rocket Man shakes hands with I’ve Seen the Saucers. So. Damn. Good.
Stinker revs the energy back up with high-octane rock, all blazing piano and fiery vocals. It’s a horn-driven boogie made for the 70s dance floor. The album’s crown jewel, Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me, delivers some of Elton’s most powerful vocals and emotional depth. It’s a timeless classic that speaks for itself. It’ll surely be the top contender for which Elton song plays during his in memoriam (hopefully 100 years from now so I don’t have to witness it).
Ticking is a storytelling masterpiece, a cinematic ballad with intricate piano work that deserves more attention than it gets. Clocking in at just over seven minutes, Ticking is far underrated. Nobody writes songs like this anymore, and if I’m wrong about that, PLEASE point me in the right direction.
Pinball Wizard is a spirited rendition of The Who’s classic, infused with Elton’s signature flair and energy. His piano playing is a maelstrom of speed and difficulty, reminiscent of Grey Seal from his last album. Sick City adds another touch of bluesy grit, grabbing attention with its raw energy. On my first listen through Caribou a while ago, Sick City was THE standout for me. It’s fallen down the pecking order since, but it remains among my favorites.
Cold Highway closes the album with a reflective, soulful number, complete with Elton’s signature backing melodies and bluesy Caribou stylings. As a bonus, Step into Christmas brings festive cheer and earns a spot among holiday classics. This song is in my Mount Rushmore of Christmas songs, and I don’t expect it to get dethroned anytime soon.
To wrap up, Caribou may dwell in the shadow of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, but it stands as proof of Elton John’s brilliance during his “golden age,” or his self-proclaimed “pre c*nt era.” This album proves Elton’s versatility, from bold rock anthems to heartfelt ballads to artistic experiments. Each track adds its own layer, making Caribou essential for fans of high-energy rock and classic Elton ballads alike.
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Highlight Songs:
The Bitch Is Back
Grimsby
I’ve Seen the Saucers
Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me
Sick City
Ticking
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Own It, Stream it, Forget about it
I say that any Elton John album during his “golden age” should be owned. I understand that Caribou might not be a No Skip Album for everyone like it now is for me, but there is too much on this record to not at the very least stream it a hundred times. So quit your lolly gagging, didn’t you hear the bitch is back?
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
