Elton John Album: “One”

"The One" is the second of three great albums which Elton John recorded from the late 1980's through the mid 1990's; the others are "Sleeping with the Past" and "Made in England". More than the others, this album truly shows the great range and depth of his talent, from great country rock ("Whitewash County") to soul ("On Dark Street") and finally, to mature pop ballads ("Simple Life", "The One", "Emily", "Understanding Women" and "The Last Song"). And he has a brilliant rock and roll classic duet with Eric Clapton, "Runaway Train", too. Although Elton relies mostly on studio musicians, with the notable exceptions of long-time band mates Davey Johnstone and Guy Babylon, his ensemble does play well together. And Elton shows that he is still at the peak of his form as a vocalist and as a pianist (e. g. his jam session at the end of "Whitewash County"). Fans of great 1990's pop/rock and roll music won't be disappointed. Along with "Made in England" and "The Road to El Dorado", this is an essential Elton John CD for the present phase of his career.

Whitewash County, The North, The Last Song and last but not least The One. Four brilliant songs on this cd. The others are just very good. I think The One is one of Elton John's best songs - and with his huge list - that's saying something. Not oddly, The One went straight to Number One.

Although there are a lot of frillsy special effects, these special touches help make The One a quality release. And the Title Track is just so darn beautiful. Possibly one of Elton's best songs. Simple Man, Understanding Women, Runaway Train, and Dark Street are also strong cuts. Elton John is a quality artist and it is further proven here as well as on other releases as he can adapt to many changes in the music scene.

I saw Elton in concert in 1973, 1976 and then in 1998. He's only gotten better with the years. How many artists can play three solid hours of solid hits. He's become a legend, and relaxed with who he is. "Simple Life" was a triumph when I saw him in 1998. The power of this song's arrangements won't let you sit still. The harmonica really jelled this song into a higher sphere. Then comes "The One". This was the song I had to hear live, and I did. My partner and I shared in a moment so incredibly powerful. What powerful lyrics. What a great into. What a delivery. Even though this was written by Taupin, this is Elton's song. You know he believes every word he's saying. You know his pain and elation in this one. "Sweat It Out" good LP song but doesn't stand out for me. "Runaway Train" I like the guitar on this one. Clapton makes this piece stand out. This one is on the same level as "Simple Man". "Whitewash County" not a favorite of mine. "The North" the piano has the same deep throated power as does "The One". "The North" could have been on one of his early masterpieces, has that kind of feel and quality. "When A Woman Doesn't Want You" fits perfect into this collection. "Emily" sounds a little forced. Like he doesn't really feel what he's singing. "On Dark Street" great title with a good beat. "Understanding Women" good song but not Elton's. "The Last Song" his most tender and heart breaking song since "I Need You To Turn To". This one makes me weak with the emotions and sentiment of my own pain and loss of so many friends. For me, Elton came alive in collection. He had something to say, a reason to sing and play piano. In another words, the right formula for a great album.

My favorite song on this cd is The Last Song. What a poignant,touching, BEAUTIFUL song. You can't help but become emotional when listening to this... I still have yet to listen to the other songs because I find myself rewinding back to The Last Song.. The best Elton has ever done!!!