Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of the Beatles, has returned with a new country album titled ”Look Up,” a testament to his lifelong love for the genre. This isn’t his first foray into country music; his 1970 album, ”Beaucoups of Blues,” was an earlier attempt to embrace the sound. Now, 55 years later, at the age of 84, Starr dons an oversized cowboy hat on the album cover and enlists the expertise of producer T-Bone Burnett to capture an authentic, old-time country feel.
The timing of Starr’s country release coincides with a resurgence of the genre’s popularity. While some might be cynical about this coincidence, the album’s undeniable charm quickly dispels such suspicions. ”Look Up” isn’t a collection of profound reflections on mortality or legacy. Unlike artists like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, or Paul Simon, Starr doesn’t delve into complex existential themes. Instead, he offers a refreshing dose of optimistic, feel-good country music.
”Look Up” exudes a spirit of kindness and simplicity, reminiscent of the classic children’s story ”The Story of Ferdinand.” While the album showcases Starr’s deep appreciation for Southern roots music, it also retains the unmistakable melodic sensibility of the Beatles. Stripped of the slide guitars and other country instrumentation, the underlying melodies reveal their pop origins. Starr’s vocals are characteristically good-natured and naive, and his lyrics retain the innocent optimism of the early 1960s, a belief in the enduring power of love and hope.
Even when touching upon darker memories in the Alison Krauss-featuring closing track, ”Thankful,” the overall tone remains comforting and optimistic. This unwavering positivity is perhaps best encapsulated in the album’s standout track, ”I Live for Your Love,” where Starr declares, ”I don’t live in the future/I don’t live in the past/I live for your love.” This simple yet profound statement encapsulates his enviable outlook on life, radiating a sense of contentment and ease. This sentiment is further reinforced by the lighthearted whistling interludes in the track ”Come Back.”
The album’s charm lies in its unpretentious simplicity. It doesn’t strive for profound depth or complex musical arrangements. Instead, it offers a comforting and enjoyable listening experience, imbued with Starr’s signature optimism and the familiar echoes of his Beatles past. The album is a testament to his enduring love for country music, a genre he has admired since his youth. It’s a feel-good record that embraces the power of positivity and the enduring belief that good things are always on the horizon.
The collaboration with T-Bone Burnett proves fruitful, capturing the genuine essence of classic country while allowing Starr’s distinctive musical personality to shine through. Burnett’s production adds a layer of authenticity to the album, enhancing the overall listening experience. The result is a delightful blend of country and pop sensibilities, creating a unique and engaging sound that is both familiar and fresh. ”Look Up” is a testament to Starr’s enduring musicality and his ability to connect with listeners through simple yet powerful messages of love, hope, and kindness.
The lyrics throughout the album reflect Starr’s enduring optimism and his simple yet profound philosophy of focusing on love and the present moment. This perspective is evident in songs like ”I Live for Your Love,” which embodies the album’s core message of embracing the present and cherishing connection. The simplicity of the lyrics adds to the album’s charm, making it relatable and accessible to a wide audience.
Furthermore, the inclusion of Alison Krauss on the closing track, ”Thankful,” adds another layer of depth and emotion to the album. Krauss’s distinctive vocals blend seamlessly with Starr’s, creating a poignant and moving duet. This collaboration showcases the breadth of musical talent present on the album and highlights Starr’s ability to bring together diverse artists to create something special.
Overall, ”Look Up” is more than just a country album; it’s a testament to Ringo Starr’s enduring spirit and his unwavering belief in the power of positivity. It’s a feel-good record that embraces the simple joys of life and reminds us to cherish the present moment. The album’s charm lies in its unpretentiousness and its genuine warmth, making it a welcome addition to Starr’s already impressive discography. It is a delightful blend of classic country influences and Starr’s signature pop sensibilities, resulting in a unique and enjoyable listening experience that will resonate with fans of both genres.
Despite the passage of time, Starr’s music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages. ”Look Up” is a testament to his enduring appeal and his ability to evolve while staying true to his musical roots. It’s a reminder that even in the face of life’s challenges, there is always room for optimism, hope, and the simple joy of a good song. The album’s optimistic message and feel-good vibe make it a perfect antidote to the complexities and uncertainties of modern life, offering a welcome escape into a world of simple pleasures and heartwarming melodies.
