Regimental Sgt. Zippo (1968/2022)

Regimental Sgt. Zippo is the whimsical, slightly heavier younger brother of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper. Recorded in 1968 but not released until 2022, it catches Elton John working through the psychedelic landscape the album’s name promises, all fuzzy, ornate, and melodic in a way that sits perfectly in the late 1960s. It never became Elton’s actual debut, and it isn’t as strong as the record that did, Empty Sky, but it has its shining moments.

The album kicks off with When I Was Tealby Abbey and And the Clock Goes Round, both built on grand organs and dramatic piano that soar. The latter nods to The Animals’ darker 60s sound, then folds in Elton’s signature harmonies and killer piano.

From there you get the soft, commercial pop of Turn to Me and the rocking title track Regimental Sgt. Zippo. The organs on A Dandelion Dies in the Wind are as prominent as ever, and You’ll Be Sorry to See Me Go captures the essence of what makes Elton work, backing harmonies and lively piano stacked into a standout, one of the best of his early years.

A few songs don’t stick, though. Tartan Coloured Lady, Angel Tree, Sitting Doing Nothing, and Hourglass lack the melodic strength of the rest. They fit the album thematically, but you’re not likely to pull them up outside of it.

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Highlight Songs:

• And The Clock Goes Round

• You’ll Be Sorry To See Me Go

• When I Was Tealby Abbey

• Regimental Sgt. Zippo

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Own It, Stream it, Forget about it

Whether you should own or stream the record depends on your preference for psychedelic pop-rock. If you enjoy the genre, you'll definitely appreciate this record and you may want to own it. However, streaming and saving a few of your favorite songs is also a viable option. Skipping the album entirely would be a missed opportunity. Don't do it. We are watching you.

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Overall Rating:

3 Stars