Off The Ground (1993)

Following the success of Flowers in the Dirt and the live album Tripping the Live Fantastic, Paul McCartney returned to the studio with Off the Ground. This record captures the raw energy of live performance, since many of the songs were recorded live in the studio. By avoiding the piecemeal approach of tracking one instrument at a time, McCartney and his touring band kept a sense of authenticity and passion in their playing. The result is an album that feels both polished and spontaneous.

The title track, Off the Ground, kicks off the album with gorgeous melodies and rich backing vocals. It sets a wonderful tone, inviting you into McCartney’s vibrant musical world. The second track, Looking for Changes, is a socially conscious song advocating against animal cruelty. Despite its serious message, it’s a thoroughly enjoyable pop-rock tune that keeps the energy high.

Following that is the single Hope of Deliverance, a catchy track layered with Latin-infused rhythms and delicate guitar work that stands out as one of the most memorable on the record. Mistress and Maid, co-written with Elvis Costello, is a charming 3/4-time song. Though it could have fit seamlessly on Flowers in the Dirt, it feels right at home here. Later, we hear another leftover Costello collaboration, The Lovers That Never Were, which unmistakably carries Elvis’s influence and is simply fantastic.

One of Paul’s most underrated love songs, I Owe It All to You, follows, and it’s a showcase for his talent with heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies. Biker Like an Icon has faced some harsh reviews, but it injects much-needed rock energy into the album. Its variety and dynamic performance make it a valuable addition.

Peace in the Neighborhood offers a great message and a fantastic outro. If you don’t like this song, you very well might just be a mean person. Golden Earth Girl is a lovely number, though it doesn’t stand out as much as the others. Its gentle beauty, however, shouldn’t be overlooked.

Get Out of My Way is a fun, energetic country rock number with a lively horn section. Its rockabilly style is infectious, and it brings a burst of life to the record after some more introspective moments. Winedark Open Sea feels like a smooth 1970s soft rock song. It may not be the most memorable track on first listen, but it grows on you with its serene, laid-back feel, making it a perfect background song for relaxed settings.

Off the Ground proves Paul McCartney’s ability to adapt and thrive across different musical landscapes. By capturing the live essence of his touring band, he delivers an album that’s both cohesive and dynamic. The blend of catchy singles, socially conscious tracks, and heartfelt ballads makes this record a standout in McCartney’s extensive discography.

While it might not reach the heights of some of his earlier masterpieces, Off the Ground further proves McCartney’s creative spark remains strong. The collaboration with Elvis Costello adds a unique flavor, and the overall production quality ensures that every song shines in its own right. This album is a testament to McCartney’s enduring talent and his ability to keep evolving as an artist.

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Highlight Songs:

• Off the Ground

• Hope of Deliverance

• I Owe It All to You

• Biker Like an Icon

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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?

Definitely a buy. The skippable songs here can be overlooked, and you can play this record from start to finish without a second thought. Stream it, buy it, just listen to it!

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Overall Rating:

4 Stars