Paul Kelly Celebrates 70 Years with New Album ‘SEVENTY’
A Legendary Career
The term “legendary” is often overused, but in the case of Australian singer-songwriter Paul Kelly, it is truly deserved. As he turns 70, Kelly marks this milestone with the release of his new album, ‘SEVENTY’, set to drop on November 7th. This album not only celebrates his extensive career but also reaffirms that he still has a lot to say.
Forty-Five Years of Craftsmanship
With 45 years in the music industry, Paul Kelly has either become complacent or an expert in his field. Thankfully, it’s the latter. Featuring 13 new tracks, ‘SEVENTY’ serves as a follow-up to his previous album, ‘Fever Longing Still’, and showcases his enduring creativity. Fans are left eager to see what else Kelly has in store.
Collaborations and Themes
‘SEVENTY’ follows a remarkable sold-out arena tour in Australia and New Zealand. The album includes collaborations with artists like Meg Washington on the track ‘Don’t Give Up On Me’ and Rebecca Barnard on ‘Made For Me’. Even at this stage in his life, Kelly continues to deliver sharp, insightful observations about Australian life, while also tackling themes of aging and mortality.
Exploring Trauma and Resilience
One standout track, ‘The Body Keeps The Score’, delves into the lasting impacts of trauma. Kelly explains, “I listened to the audiobook ‘The Body Keeps The Score’ by Bessel van der Kolk on a road trip years ago. It explores how trauma can be buried in our bodies and surface unexpectedly, affecting not only the individual but their loved ones as well.” This exploration of trauma reflects Kelly’s maturing perspective on life’s complexities.
A Journey Through Storytelling
‘Rita Wrote A Letter’, the second track, continues a narrative begun in 1987 with ‘To Her Door’. The song tells the story of a character recently released from prison, who learns from his wife Rita that she has moved on. This poignant revelation leads him to contemplate his own fate. Kelly notes, “I’ve been mulling over the idea of a sequel to ‘How To Make Gravy’ from Rita’s point of view for quite some time. The song took a dark turn, but to my mind, it’s a black comedy—a ghost story.”
Musical Diversity
In ‘I Keep Coming Back For More’, Kelly channels a Dylanesque vibe, expressing the addictive nature of love and longing. Following this, ‘Take It Easy’ presents an upbeat yet weighty examination of historical figures like Cicero, whose fate is starkly referenced in the lyrics. This juxtaposition of light and heavy themes is a hallmark of Kelly’s songwriting.
A Personal Touch
‘Happy Birthday Ada Mae’ is a heartfelt tribute to Kelly’s granddaughter, celebrating her second birthday while reflecting on the challenges of the world she will inherit. The song brings together family members, including Kelly’s nephew Dan on electric guitar and his daughter Maddy providing harmony vocals. It is a touching reminder of generational responsibility and love.
Aging Gracefully
‘SEVENTY’ is an introspective exploration of aging. The album cover features a striking black-and-white portrait by Dean Podmore, reminiscent of an iconic image from 1988. While time has added a few lines to Kelly’s face, his eyes remain soft and wise, reflecting the many experiences that have shaped him. He has learned to discern which battles are worth fighting, and it’s clear there is still plenty of life in Paul Kelly.
Conclusion
‘SEVENTY’ is set to be released on November 7, and pre-orders are available now. The album promises to showcase Paul Kelly’s continued evolution as an artist, and fans can look forward to more of his poignant storytelling and musical prowess. To learn more about Paul Kelly and his work, visit his official website and follow him on social media platforms.
FAQs
When is Paul Kelly’s album ‘SEVENTY’ released?
‘SEVENTY’ is set to be released on November 7, 2023.
What themes does Paul Kelly explore in ‘SEVENTY’?
The album explores themes of aging, trauma, and personal storytelling, reflecting on both individual and shared experiences.
Who are some collaborators on the album?
Paul Kelly collaborates with artists like Meg Washington and Rebecca Barnard on tracks from ‘SEVENTY’.
How can fans learn more about Paul Kelly’s music?
Fans can find more information on Paul Kelly’s official website and social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Spotify.
Will there be music videos for songs from ‘SEVENTY’?
Yes, a music video for the track ‘Rita Wrote A Letter’ has been released, and fans can watch it online.
