Music icon Sir Paul McCartney released his 16th studio album New on Friday, Oct. 11, rocketing to the third slot in the Billboard 200 and claiming new musical territory. His latest creation, a mutation of 21st century beats and a classic “Mecca” sound was constructed with the help of four producers including Ethan Johns, Paul Epworth, Giles Martin, and Mark Ronson. The collaborators provided the album with versatility, ranging from catchy tunes such as “Queenie Eye” to a fast paced, modern “Appreciate” and folksy rock ballads, such as “Early Days” and “Get Me Out of Here”. In the first couple of tracks, McCartney embarks a journey into a more contemporary sound, with upbeat hints of rock and pop. As the tracks progress, there is a sudden shift. The tunes slowly begin to focus on instrumentals and his signature vocals, providing a classic rock n’ roll vibe. The former Beatle doesn’t concentrate solely on the depth of lyrics, but on the actual experience for his listeners. Like his previous works, New is lighthearted and fun, but does in fact contain subtle layers of meaning. One of the most influential factors on McCartney’s album is his infatuation for wife of two years, Nancy Shevell. The album is drenched in passionate and lovey dovey lyrics, and the last track, “Scared” brings it to a romantic halt. The musical genius reveals his emotions through his lyrics: “I’m scared to say I love you/ Afraid to let you know/ That the simplest of words won’t come out of my mouth/ Though I’m dying to let them go” leaving listeners with a satisfying end to an expertly constructed album. The seventy-one-year-old concocted a work of musical art that can be described in three words—pure musical gold.
New: Paul McCartney Album Review
November 1, 2013
About the Contributor
Gabriela Sanchez, Arts and Entertainment Editor
Writer Gabby Sanchez enters The Downey Legend staff with high hopes and a career oriented state of mind. She has been chosen to take on the position as Arts & Entertainment Editor, a position not so easily conquered. Using her skills as a writer she hopes to attract more readers to the arts Downey High School has to offer. Sanchez decided to join the online publication in order to gain insight in journalism. “I wanted to see if this was something I could be able to do as a career,” Sanchez said. For this aspiring journalist, her work has only just begun.
The editor had never seen her future predicted this way; moving from Peru at the age of three limited her English, proving difficult for her to adjust to the new language. “During elementary, I was bad at English, but its something I later improved in,” Sanchez said. She not only improved in a foreign language, but she also grew to like the challenge she accustomed to. After overcoming this difficulty proved to be a great strength in Sanchez, using it to her advantage when confronted by deadlines as well as schoolwork.
But beyond the classroom is where she enjoys her teen years with friends, listening to music, and enjoying the foods and movies other countries have to offer. “I love Italian food,” the cuisine enthusiast said. “I also like to watch movies in my spare time, especially foreign films.” With having The Downey Legend set as a foundation for her future, Sanchez’ main incentive is to travel the world and live on her own. Although unsure of what college to pursue her journalism career, she knows a UC will suit her in her plan to write for Time Magazine.