Madman Across The Water (1971)
At this point in his career, Elton was already gaining widespread recognition for his unique blend of rock, pop, and classical influences. Madman Across the Water arrived with high expectations, following the success of Elton John and Tumbleweed Connection. This is a record that effortlessly rides the highs those two set. It isn’t quite as strong as Tumbleweed Connection, but it’s still unbelievably great.
Right from the first track, Tiny Dancer, you can’t help but get pulled in by the gentle piano melody and Elton’s emotive vocals. It’s gone on to become one of his biggest hits ever, and it should be universally known by anyone who listens to music. Across the record, Elton proves his piano virtuosity and incomparable musicianship. Levon builds into a melodic rocker, and Holiday Inn is filled out by rich arrangements that carry that Tumbleweed Connection nostalgia. The latter has a slight twang, complemented by Tumbleweed Connection’s signature gospel-choir backing vocals. And yes, it’s written about the Holiday Inn hotels you’re thinking of.
The record has two versions of its title track, Madman Across the Water, and the alternate that ended up on the newly released deluxe album is the superior one in my opinion. The original is complex and gorgeous, but the alternate, featuring Mick Ronson, stretches to almost nine minutes and has a lot more dynamism about it. The electric guitar on this track, I kid you not, is some of the best you will ever hear. It leaves me in awe after every replay. It becomes a six-star song after that.
Indian Sunset is an epic composition that fuses Native American lyrical influences with Elton’s signature style. Its orchestral grandeur and complexity create an experience that lingers long after the final note fades. At this point it seems Elton can do no wrong, and that thought holds through Rotten Peaches, which adds a touch of bluesy gospel charm while Elton’s vocals carry a raw vulnerability that connects. All the Nasties, though, is what I’d call the “flop” of the album. It takes a more experimental turn, keeping some of that gospel-like influence, then leads into a chorus I just don’t find that exciting. The music is there, the arrangement is there, the melodies are there in the verses, but the chorus lets it down. I want to like it, and I just can’t lean into it.
Despite those minor criticisms, Madman Across the Water stands as proof of Elton John’s artistry and brilliance as a musician. The album’s adventurous spirit and emotionally charged performances make it essential for anyone who cares about music. Its thoughtful compositions, powerful vocals, and occasional experimentation make it well worth the ride.
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Highlight Songs:
Tiny Dancer
Madman Across The Water (ft. Mick Ronson)
Levon
Indian Sunset
Holiday Inn
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Own It, Stream it, Forget about it
Much like the last couple of record, this is a must own. Madman Across The Water has essential Elton John listening. It also, simply, has essential listening in general. Don’t skip out. We will find you.
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Overall Rating:
4.5 Stars
