|
HERE & NOW (Jeff Christie)
(digital only)
IN 2024, 12 years after his last album, Jeff released
another set of his compositions, one which contained songs with descriptive
lyrics, images and melodies of the absaolute highest calibre, a testament
to his maturity as one of the finest songwriters around.
Apart from several new pieces, Jeff also reworked
several of his older Christie songs, giving them a fresh, reinvigorated
take.
The first single from the set is One
In A Million.
Tracklist
1. Driving Down To Memphis
2. Ordinary People
3. One In A Million
4. Better By Now
5. Building Bridges
6. Crash And Burn
7. Lost Without A Trace
8. Fool's Gold
9. Man Of Many Faces
10. Put Your Money Down
11. Inside Looking Out
12. Heaven
13. For All Mankind
REVIEWS
ANTIMUSIC (Keavin Wiggins)
Music veteran Jeff Christie just released his new
album Here And Now and to celebrate
we asked him to tell us about the track One
In A Million.
Here is the story:
"After a tough
year of personal ups and downs and trying to fulfil some difficult
deadlines, I upped and found myself nestled in a beautiful old hotel
overlooking the sea in Italy, the first real holiday for some time.
"I needed to
unwind, relax, enjoy some sunshine, good food and wine. After a
few days of this, the heat started to become a bit oppressive and
one afternoon I wandered around inside of the hotel and discovered
a grand piano in the corner of one of the lounge bars. The area
was empty of people so I sat down and opened the lid to find it
perfectly in tune and started tinkering.
"Before long,
and as usual, whenever I sit at a piano a few random notes or chords
will often morph into some semblance of a tune and if I allow myself
not to get distracted eventually a song emerges. Sometimes I work
laterally and it may be a title that comes to mind first, especially
if it hooks into the few notes that I'd already been doodling with.
That's exactly how this song was born.
"I had been
thinking back on my life and the people that I was indebted to for
either their love and support, or for showing me what the real meaning
of a life well lived meant. What is it that transforms some people
into great humanitarians that put others before self.
"Is it a gene
that we're born with or is it a gradual life journey that leads
to a conscious decision to always try and do the right thing, without
resentment but with generosity of spirit?
"I was fortunate
to know a couple of people like that in my own life experience.
Letting my memories run for a while the words 'One in a Million,
One of a Kind' leapt out and now my horse was out of the starting
blocks.
"I sat there
for an hour or so and wrote down some words, by which time a few
people including some lobster-red Brits drifted into the bar and
I stopped for obvious reasons. Back in the room I probably finished
most of the lyrics with the basic tune firmly fixed in my head.
Over the next couple of days whenever that piano area was people-free,
I'd go over it till I'd basically finished the song.
"Back home I
put down a basic notepad demo and when I got round to the actual
recording, I worked out the feel with drums and bass and acoustic
and with that foundation stone laid it was just a question of building
the track up adding piano, Hammond organ and some more keyboard
and then layering some guitar riffs to existing bass riffs.
"Next up were
the vocals. I like to first do a pilot vocal so I can see what harmonies
and back-up vocals might work then I try and get a decent lead vocal.
"Once that was
in the bag, I tracked up the harmonies and left it alone for a few
days without playing it because giving it some space allows listening
again with fresh ears. I thought it might be fun to try and get
a thunderclap sound onto the track around the same time as I sing
thunder and lightning mid-section of the song, so I found a fairly
decent 'thunder sound' on my keyboard and 'played' it in at the
right moment and was surprised to see how good it sounded.
"The
only thing left was to get some kind of solo on the tail-out of
the track and I really felt a sax solo would be ideal, so I got
hold of Snake Davis who lives in Yorkshire and is a widely respected
musician with an impressive CV. I had a couple of Facetime calls
with him where I basically sang the solo I wanted and he played
it back to me over the phone until he had it down.
"He recorded
it at his home and sent me the files and then we just slotted it
into the rough mix and that was the track completed. It sounded
great and then it was just about getting the right mix which I think
I've got, as every time I listen there's nothing I would change.
"Of course the
thing about mixes is you can go on forever and at some point you've
got to call a halt or you end up going down rabbit hole after rabbit
hole.
"I love working
like this and building the track up bit by bit or sound by sound.
It's like building a house: first you need a solid foundation which
in this case and usually is tight drums and bass plus a piano or
guitar to form the rhythm section, then comes next section of walls,
floors and roof, i.e. the orchestrated instrumental arrangement
and vocals, then finally the paint and furnishings: the mix and
mastering process.
"I don't work
fast and like to mull over any given song and mix sometimes making
changes along the way. For me the song is king and it deserves the
best clothes I can dress it in."
FAMOUS TIMES (Khy Talara)
Here & Now marks a reflective and
meaningful chapter in the career of an artist best known for his
1970 hit Yellow River.
It brings with it a blend of Jeff Christie's signature
classic rock style, filled with both nostalgia and new explorations.
After selling over 30 million records and maintaining a long, storied
career, his latest effort demonstrates a seasoned artist's perspective,
blending his time-tested sound with fresh, contemporary ideas.
At first glance, Here &
Now reflects on common yet timeless human themes: resilience,
nostalgia, societal divisions, and personal growth. Tracks like
One in a Million and Ordinary
People highlight Christie's ability to craft lyrics that
speak to everyday experiences while embedding profound insights.
In One in a Million,
Christie weaves a story of uniqueness and belonging, using relatable
imagery-"watching it turn, turn, turn"-to represent the
constant ebb and flow of life. The chorus, repeating "one in
a million, one of a kind," serves as a motivational anthem
that resonates with the listener's journey for self-identity.
Ordinary People,
on the other hand, takes a broader, sociopolitical angle, tapping
into the anxieties of the modern age. Its message of unity and the
widening gap between societal classes echoes current concerns while
also portraying Christie's sharp, worldly observations.
The track feels conversational, presenting life
as a journey with "a suitcase of dreams" as a companion.
The inclusion of metaphorical references to traveling and train
rides conjures a sense of movement, with the lyrics ultimately urging
people to reflect on the divisions that shape the world today.
One standout track, Driving
Down to Memphis, channels Christie's ability to evoke vivid
landscapes with music. It's a classic road-trip song steeped in
Americana imagery, blending the rock 'n' roll spirit with a wistful
dreamscape.
The journey from "Memphis, Tennessee"
to "Graceland" metaphorically signals the passing of time
and the desire for freedom. The recurring chorus "Nothing I
could believe, nothing that I could see / Nothing that you could
take away, could stop me being free" points to a persistent
optimism, even in moments of longing or uncertainty. Musically,
the song taps into laid-back, country-tinged rock, with smooth rhythms
that complement its thematic message of escape and reflection.
On a more introspective note, Better
By Now turns inward, focusing on the complexities of relationships
and personal growth. It's here that Christie showcases his lyrical
maturity, addressing the highs and lows of life with a partner:
"When it's good, it's good, and when it's bad, we sharpen up
our little knives."
The song's vulnerability is evident, reflecting
an understanding that comes only with experience and time. The realisation
that "we should know better by now" reveals a deeper self-awareness,
acknowledging the inevitable mistakes we make while striving for
growth.
Another thoughtful composition, Building
Bridges, captures a theme of reconciliation and healing,
with Christie urging people to "cross that great divide."
With a focus on unity, this track feels particularly poignant in
the current cultural climate, offering a hopeful vision for mending
broken connections. Christie's conviction in the chorus - "It's
only building bridges that can save us from ourselves" - resonates
strongly as both a personal and collective call to action.
Throughout Here & Now,
Christie's distinct voice remains the guiding force. His vocals
carry the weight of decades of experience, alternating between melodic
tenderness and confident resilience. The album's
production stays grounded in rock's traditional roots, with rich
guitar work, steady percussion, and layered harmonies, while occasional
flashes of more contemporary stylings add a modern polish.
In sum, Here & Now
encapsulates Jeff Christie's enduring ability to speak to the universal
experiences of his listeners. Through poignant lyrics, a blend of
rock and folk elements, and an overarching message of hope and resilience,
Christie reminds us that, no matter how much time passes, music
remains a timeless force of connection.
For fans both old and new, Here
& Now is not only a celebration of a prolific career
but also a heartfelt, thought-provoking journey through the present.
MUSIC CROWNS (Lauren Chavez)
Jeff Christie returns with One in a Million,
a single that resonates with the depth and maturity expected from
an artist of his calibre.
This track, infused
with reflective lyrics and a melodious arrangement, offers a rejuvenating
dive into the essence of self-discovery and appreciation of life's
mentors.
From the first note, Christie's familiar tonal
warmth envelops the listener. The song begins with a gentle piano
that sets a reflective mood, soon accompanied by a robust and well-synchroniSed
rhythm section of drums and bass that provides a solid foundation.
The addition of the Hammond organ and layered guitar riffs enriches
the texture, enhancing the song's emotional reach without overwhelming
Christie's heartfelt vocal delivery.
Lyrically, One in a Million
navigates through themes of wisdom, humility, and the human condition.
The chorus - "One in a million, one of a kind - is both an
homage to unique individuals who have made impactful differences
and a contemplative look at Christie's personal journey.
The verses weave
stories of growth, challenges, and the ever-present human flaws,
encapsulated brilliantly with the line "thunder and lightning
made fools of us all".
A standout moment
in the track is the mid-section where Christie integrates a thunderclap
sound effect - a creative stroke that adds a dramatic punch aligning
perfectly with the lyrical mention of thunder and lightning. This
element not only showcases his attention to detail but also enhances
the song's atmospheric depth.
The decision to incorporate
a saxophone solo towards the track's conclusion proves to be a masterstroke.
The soulful saxophone, played by Snake Davis, adds a layer of richness
to the arrangement, ensuring the song's climax is as stirring as
its message.
The production of One in
a Million is polished, with each element finely tuned to
contribute to a wholesome listening experience. Christie's approach
to letting the song mature over time before finalising the mix is
evident, as every component feels necessary and in its rightful
place.
Overall, Jeff Christie's One
in a Million is a profound and beautifully crafted song that
stands out in his repertoire. It's a musical exploration of life's
rare, impactful moments and the people who make them memorable.
For fans and new
listeners alike, this track is a testament to Christie's enduring
talent and his ability to connect deeply with his audience through
music.
LOS ANGELES WIRE (Martin
De Juan)
Jeff Christie's Here & Now feels
like a poignant testament to a career that has spanned over five
decades, with this 2024 release offering both a nod to his storied
past and a fresh take on the modern-day soundscape.
Famous for his 1970
megahit Yellow River, Christie has
long been associated with a pop-rock sensibility that mixed catchy
hooks with a certain nostalgic warmth. However, Here
& Now seeks to expand that legacy, blending classic rock
structures with contemporary elements, all while maintaining the
timeless, evocative lyricism that has always defined his songwriting.
The album's first
single, One in a Million, immediately
sets the tone, with its contemplative reflection on individuality
and life's journey. The chorus is anthemic, its lyrics - "One
in a million, one of a kind" - lingering in the listener's
mind as a reminder of the optimism that permeates much of Christie's
work.
Musically, it fuses
familiar guitar-driven melodies with a more modern production sheen,
making it feel both comforting and current. There's a sense of grandiosity
here, almost Springsteen-esque in its ambition, with big, soaring
choruses that urge introspection.
Ordinary
People showcases Christie's knack for storytelling. This
track stands out for its socio-political undercurrents, touching
on themes of wealth disparity and societal divides.
The line, "When
the rich get richer, and the poor get poorer, there's an ever-widening
divide," adds weight to the track's gentle, yet persistent
folk-rock pulse.
Its thoughtful commentary
on the modern world feels very in line with the ethos of '70s singer-songwriters,
but there's a slight bitterness in the lyrics, as if Christie has
grown disillusioned with some aspects of the human condition. Musically,
the track is reminiscent of Don McLean or even Paul Simon, marrying
observational lyrics with warm, earthy instrumentation.
One of the most striking
tracks is Driving Down to Memphis,
a breezy, rootsy ode to Americana that finds Christie tipping his
hat to Elvis and the mythic status of Memphis, Tennessee. This song,
with its easy-going, road-trip vibe, feels almost like a direct
descendant of Yellow River - a song
of escape and liberation.
The driving rhythm
and the imagery of dusty highways and blue horizons conjure a sense
of freedom, evoking the spirit of classic road songs, from Tom Petty's
Running Down a Dream to Bob Dylan's
Highway 61 Revisited. The track carries
a sense of both nostalgia and timelessness, making it one of the
album's most accessible moments.
The overarching theme
of Here & Now is one of reflection.
The lyrics consistently explore the passage of time, the lessons
learned, and the dreams yet unfulfilled. Whether addressing personal
struggles, societal issues, or the bittersweet nature of existence,
Christie's songwriting remains engaging and sincere.
His voice, though
naturally weathered by time, still carries that distinct tone that
made him a fixture of the early '70s pop-rock scene. There's a sense
of resilience here, as if Christie is still searching for answers,
still pushing forward despite the weight of his storied career.
Critically, Here
& Now will likely resonate with long-time fans who have
followed Christie since his Christie band days. It's a continuation
of the sound that made him famous, but with a more mature, reflective
edge. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, it shows a musician who
has gracefully aged into his craft, offering a blend of old-school
sensibility with just enough modern polish to keep things fresh.
For fans of classic
rock, or those who have followed Jeff Christie's journey, Here
& Now serves as both a satisfying callback and a compelling
statement of perseverance. Tracks like One
in a Million and Driving Down to Memphis
are standout moments that showcase his enduring talent for crafting
catchy, meaningful songs.
And while the album
might not break new ground in terms of innovation, it solidifies
Christie's place as a respected veteran still capable of delivering
heartfelt, well-constructed music. In short, Here
& Now is an album that proves Jeff Christie is still
very much here - connected to his roots, but not confined by them.
POLYPHONIC PRESS
Jeff Christie is your classy jukebox junkie musician.
You know that moment
when you listen to a song and want to learn an instrument? All of
Jeff's music sounds like that.
The easygoing, charming
personality shines through sheet music-and that's a tough thing
to pull off.
Fans knew that Jeff Christie had a three-course
meal all prepped up. The album features some amazing groovy music,
and the opening track, Drivin' Down to Memphis,
just puts you in the mood for smelling gasoline.
It is the quintessential
road trip song, from the tempo to his visual poetry which he conjures
with ease.
Jeff Christie sings
like living is second nature to him. He seems to be a personification
of the melody.
The number of layers
that he has perfected in production is impressive. From the percussion
to the floating harmonies, it comes together, well, like a song.
Another one you must check out is One
in a Million, but the collection is worth the obsession.
Jeff Christie makes the wait worth it.
GROOVER CITY (Flav Gabry)
Here at Groover City, we listen to and write about what we like,
in any genre, at almost any time. After more than 35 years in the
field, it's still a privilege to discover audio gems in this ever-evolving
musical rollercoaster. And Jeff Christie? Well, he's one of those
gems, by far.
Jeff Christie is
back, and no, this isn't just a rehash of his 1970 hit Yellow
River that once dominated charts in 26 countries. His new
album, Here & Now, isn't a relic from the past. Seriously, this
is a fresh chapter in a career that's spanned five decades.
However, Jeff Christie
isn't one to rest on past laurels. He's still here, still making
music, and proving that rock stars don't retire quietly, they evolve.
This album blends his signature sound with contemporary elements
that are sure to attract both die-hard fans and a new generation
of listeners.
The pre-sale for
Jeff Christie's new album Here & Now
started in August, and let's just say the excitement has been palpable.
Jeff's behind a career that boasts songwriting credits for icons
like Elton John, R.E.M., and Cliff Richard. Not to mention rubbing
shoulders with legends like Hendrix and Pink Floyd - you know, in
fact this isn't just some nostalgia-fuelled album release. Jeff
Christie is still in the game, and Here &
Now is proof he's got plenty more to give.
So, what can you
expect from the album? Well, for one, it's a perfect blend of the
old and new. There are those familiar Christie vibes in here. The
ones that have carried his music through five decades.
But there's also
something fresh, something modern. It's like a master chef updating
a classic dish: you still taste the original flavours, but there's
a new zest, a contemporary flair that keeps you hooked. And for
those wondering whether Christie still has what it takes - Here
& Now is a resounding yes.
Jeff could easily
kick back and live off the success of Yellow
River (a tune that sold over 30 million copies, by the way),
but that's just not his style. Here &
Now is a beacon of resilience, a declaration that Jeff Christie
is as relevant today as he was in the heyday of rock. His impact
on music and pop culture runs deep. Who else can claim a spot in
the legendary Yellow
Pages ad, after all? For me, it's obvious that this album
just adds another layer to his legacy.
One in a Million,
the lead single from Here & Now,
sums it up perfectly. It's a throwback to the classic Christie sound,
but with a bold modern edge that lets you know he's still got something
new to say. Just because this is not the man resting on his past
success. This is an artist who's pushing forward, still challenging
himself to evolve.
At Groover City,
we've seen trends come and go, watched artists rise and fall. And
yet, discovering something new from a rock legend like Jeff Christie
reminds us why we love this job. It's a rare treat when someone
with his pedigree doesn't just keep up with the times but shapes
them. His music is proof that great artistry doesn't have an expiration
date. It just keeps getting better.
Whether
you're a long-time fan or someone who's just hearing the name Jeff
Christie for the first time (seriously?),
Here & Now deserves your attention. Because the man is
living proof that true legends don't fade away, but they adapt,
evolve, and continue to create.
ARTISTWEEKLY.COM (Holy Minoza)
Jeff Christie's single One
in a Million is a reflective, emotionally resonant piece
that showcases not only his songwriting talent but also his ability
to transform personal experiences into universally relatable themes.
The song, born out of a moment of quiet introspection
during a holiday in Italy, delves into the qualities that make certain
individuals stand out as truly exceptional human beings-those rare
souls who seem to be "one in a million."
The genesis of the track is as much a part of
its charm as the final product. Christie found himself inspired
while tinkering on a grand piano in an empty lounge bar, surrounded
by the serene beauty of the Italian coastline.
The idea for the song emerged from his reflections
on life, gratitude, and the characteristics that define the great
humanitarians he has known. It's a song about reverence, about recognising
and honouring those who lead with love and selflessness, and the
lyrical content reflects this deep sense of appreciation.
Musically, One in a Million
is built from a solid foundation of drums, bass, and acoustic elements,
with layers added meticulously, much like the construction of a
well-built house. The piano and Hammond organ provide a rich, warm
bed of sound, over which Christie's vocals and guitar riffs soar.
The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the track,
from the carefully constructed harmonies to the strategic use of
a thunderclap sound that adds a dramatic touch during the song's
midsection.
The inclusion of a saxophone solo by the renowned
musician Snake Davis is a masterstroke. Davis's solo adds a layer
of sophistication and emotional depth to the track, complementing
the song's introspective lyrics and reinforcing the melancholic
yet hopeful mood.
It's clear from the way Christie describes the
recording process that he approached the song with a craftsman's
precision, ensuring that every element served the song's overarching
theme.
Lyrically, the song is both introspective and
philosophical. Lines like "One in a million, one of a kind,
one of the chosen, leading the blind" evoke a sense of admiration
for those who, through their actions and character, stand out from
the crowd.
The repetition of these lines reinforces the idea
that such individuals are rare and precious, a theme that resonates
deeply as the song unfolds. The lyrics also touch on the universal
experiences of life-growth, learning, pride, and the realization
that not all answers are as clear-cut as we might hope.
There's a poignant recognition of the human condition,
encapsulated in the line, "Most people like you and me, could
be one in a million, one of a kind."
One in a Million
is a song that combines thoughtful, well-crafted lyrics with a richly
textured musical arrangement. It's a testament to Christie's ability
to draw from personal experience to create music that is both relatable
and deeply moving. The song's structure, with its careful layering
of instruments and vocals, mirrors the complexity of the themes
it explores - how one becomes "one in a million" through
a combination of innate qualities and life experiences.
This single stands out not just for its musicality
but for the sincerity and depth of its message. It invites listeners
to reflect on the people in their own lives who might be "one
in a million" and to appreciate the qualities that make these
individuals truly special.
It is more than just a song; it's a tribute to
the human spirit, a celebration of those who inspire us to be better,
and a reminder of the impact one person can have on the world.
Rating: 9/10
1NMUSIC.COM (Tiki Black)
TB: What would you say is unique about
you and your music?
JC: I'm unique in the sense that nobody
sounds like or looks like me. Nobody has exactly the same set of emotional
aspects to their personality as me and nobody has experienced the
same life journey as me. As much as I'd like to be labelled unique
musically, I'd be more comfortable with the label of a singer-songwriter
in a long line of songwriters committed to the pursuit of excellence
in that craft.
It would be indulgent to think of myself as musically
unique, apart from having the odd song that in a portfolio of several
hundred songs sounds like no other song I'm aware of, but all songwriters
are influenced subconsciously if not consciously by other songs and
we're all magpies wittingly or not.
TB: What or who shaped your music and
who supports you?
JC: Originally my mother, by exposing
me to the beauty and magic of music from my very early childhood.
My support base is my family, close friends and fans.
TB: What type of music do you listen
to?
JC: A wide range from the great classical
symphonic composers, to operatic arias, the great American Songbook,
jazz, blues, vintage rock 'n' roll, early Motown, soul, country and
quality pop/rock.
TB: What do you do when you don't do
music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about?
JC: I never don't do music as it's my
default position for sanity! Walking, swimming, eating, sleeping,
foreign movies, theatre, reading and loyalty.
TB: Success to you is
?
JC: A life well lived.
TB: What do you wish you were told when
you started out and that you think would help anyone who starts out?
JC: Don't put off tomorrow what you can
do today, and failing to plan is planning to fail. Believe in yourself
and be the best you can be.
TB: What is next for Jeff Christie?
JC: My new album Here And Now is released
September 13, 2024. You can find my music on Sony Records, Cherry
Red Records, MTS, Spotify, Apple, Deezer and other music platforms.
LEEDS LIVING (Adam Kershaw)
Jeff Christie, best known for his global hit Yellow
River, which topped charts in 26 countries and sold over 30
million copies, has had a storied career that spans over five decades.
His new album Here & Now, will be
released on September 13.
Jeff was born in Leeds. His musical journey began
at the age of 13, leading to a prolific career marked by groundbreaking
tours and numerous accolades, including the UK's prestigious Ivor
Novello Award.
Here & Now marks
a significant milestone in Jeff's enduring career, showcasing his
continued passion for music and his ability to evolve with the times.
This new release promises to deliver the signature sound that has
made Jeff a cherished name in rock and pop history, coupled with fresh,
contemporary elements that appeal to both long-time fans and new listeners.
Jeff's career highlights include leading the band
Christie to international fame; groundbreaking tours across the globe;
being the first Western band to perform in the USSR behind the Iron
Curtain; composing hits that have been recorded by world famous artists
such as Elton John, R.E.M and Cliff Richard to name a few.
His legacy to popular culture is further
cemented by inclusion of his music in films, in particular Alphonso
Cuaron's Oscar and BAFTA award-winning film Roma.
SKOPE
Jeff Christie's Here & Now marks
a poignant return for a musician whose career has spanned over five
decades. Best known for the 1970 smash hit Yellow
River, Christie's influence on pop and rock music has been
immense, with a legacy cemented by chart-topping singles, collaborations
with industry giants, and contributions to popular culture that have
transcended generations.
Now, with Here & Now,
Christie presents a body of work that not only acknowledges his storied
past but also ventures into new sonic territories, appealing to both
nostalgic fans and contemporary listeners alike.
At its core, the album is a reflection of Christie's
enduring spirit, melding the classic rock and pop sensibilities that
defined his early career with a fresh, modern approach. It kicks off
with first single, One in a Million,
a track that serves as a bridge between the past and present.
With its driving rhythm and catchy chorus, it encapsulates
the timelessness of Christie's songwriting while offering a polished,
contemporary sound. The lyrics explore themes of individuality and
self-realisation, a narrative that resonates with Christie's journey
through the music industry-where he's seen both the heights of fame
and the quiet periods of introspection.
Another standout track, Driving
Down to Memphis, is a road song in the truest sense, evoking
the spirit of classic Americana with a distinctly British twist. The
song's lyrics paint vivid images of open highways, distant horizons,
and the dreamlike quality of travel - echoing the work of artists
like Tom Petty or Bruce Springsteen but infused with Christie's own
lyrical style. The repeated chorus, with its yearning for freedom
and simplicity, underscores the album's broader theme of finding peace
in the present moment - a theme that Christie revisits throughout
the record.
Musically, Here & Now
is a rich tapestry that blends elements of rock, pop, and folk, all
underscored by Christie's unmistakable voice. Tracks like Ordinary
People and Better By Now showcase
his ability to craft songs that are both intimate and expansive, drawing
listeners into his world with warm, inviting melodies and reflective
lyrics.
The production, handled by Christie himself, is
crisp and modern, ensuring that while the album pays homage to his
roots, it never sounds dated.
Critically, Here & Now
will likely be seen as a testament to Christie's resilience and adaptability
in an ever-changing musical landscape. While some might initially
approach the album with a sense of nostalgia, they'll quickly find
that it's more than just a retread of past glories. Instead, Christie
uses his platform to explore new themes and sounds, proving that even
after decades in the industry, he still has plenty to say.
The album's lyrical content is where Christie truly
shines, with each track offering a glimpse into his worldview - one
shaped by years of experience, both good and bad.
For fans of Christie's earlier work, Here
& Now will be a welcome addition to his discography, offering
the same melodic charm that made songs like Yellow River timeless.
For new listeners, it's an invitation to discover a musician who,
despite the passing of years, remains as relevant and engaging as
ever.
In a world where many artists from the '60s and
'70s have faded into obscurity or become mere nostalgia acts, Jeff
Christie's Here & Now is a refreshing
reminder that true artistry knows no age. It's an album that lives
up to its title, capturing the essence of the present while honouring
the past, and it stands as a powerful statement from a musician who
refuses to rest on his laurels.
With Here & Now,
Jeff Christie proves that he is not just a relic of rock history,
but an active, vital force in today's music scene.
HONK (Pete Burns)
Jeff Christie's album Here & Now
offers a tapestry of songs that delve deep into the human experience,
blending classic rock sensibilities with reflective, often poignant
lyrics. Three standout tracks, One in a Million,
Crash and Burn, and Inside Looking Out,
exemplify Christie's knack for storytelling and his ability to evoke
a range of emotions through his music.
One in a Million, the
first single from the album, is a lyrical exploration of individuality,
self-awareness, and the often harsh realities of life. The song is
reflective and philosophical, with Christie delving into the complexities
of standing out in a world that often pushes people towards conformity.
It is a profound exploration of the human desire for uniqueness, tempered
by the realities of life's challenges. Jeff Christie's lyrics are
both aspirational and cautionary, encouraging listeners to strive
for greatness while remaining mindful of the pitfalls that can accompany
such a pursuit.
The song, with its reflective tone and poetic lyricism,
stands as a highlight of Here & Now,
offering a deep and resonant message that will speak to listeners
who have ever grappled with the desire to be extraordinary in an ordinary
world.
Crash and Burn is a
cautionary tale wrapped in a classic rock melody, resonating with
themes of ambition, hubris, and the inevitable fall that can accompany
unchecked desires. The song's lyrics caution against the dangers of
moving too fast and reaching too high without the necessary wisdom
or patience: "You wanna touch the rising sun, you wanna be the
only one, but you'll just have to wait your turn, or else you're gonna
crash and burn."
The verses carry a sense of urgency, urging restraint
and self-awareness in a world that often glorifies speed and success
at any cost. Christie's lyrics, "Travelling at the speed of light
won't bring the gift of second sight," serve as a stark reminder
that foresight and patience are invaluable, and that recklessness
can lead to downfall. Musically, the track is driven by a strong,
steady rhythm that mirrors the relentless pace of modern life, creating
a sense of inevitability as it builds toward the powerful chorus.
Inside Looking Out shifts
the tone to a more introspective and sombre narrative, exploring the
despair and resignation of someone trapped by their circumstances.
The song opens with a haunting line: "Fifteen hundred miles is
a long, long way, and I wish that I could be with you especially today."
Immediately, Christie establishes a sense of distance - both physical
and emotional - setting the stage for a deeply personal exploration
of regret and lost time.
The story unfolds from the perspective of someone
imprisoned, both literally and metaphorically, reflecting on the passage
of time and the crushing weight of missed opportunities. The refrain,
"I'm on the inside looking out and don't you know there's nothing
I can do", captures the helplessness and futility felt by the
narrator, making it one of the most emotionally charged lines on the
album.
Here & Now is not
just an album; it's a conversation between Christie and his audience,
one that spans decades of life experience and offers wisdom, solace,
and a sense of shared humanity. Whether you're a longtime fan or new
to Christie's music, these tracks promise to leave a lasting impression,
echoing long after the final note has faded.
MUSIC EXISTENCE (Michael Stover)
Jeff Christie's Here & Now represents
a stunning return for the iconic songwriter, blending nostalgia with
contemporary reflections.
Known best for his 1970 global hit Yellow
River, Christie delves into familiar territory while revealing
a seasoned perspective shaped by decades of musical and personal growth.
Spanning rock, pop, and folk elements, this new album serves as both
a tribute to his past and a nod to the artist he's become.
The opening single, One in
a Million, feels like a reflective anthem for a life lived
in the spotlight. Its steady rhythm and memorable chorus are reminiscent
of classic Christie, yet the lyrics offer something more mature. He
touches on themes of success and humility, warning that "pride
comes before a fall".
The balance of optimism and realism runs through
the album, with melodic guitar riffs and subtle production allowing
the words to take centre stage. The song's understated instrumentation
complements its introspective lyrics, making it a perfect entry point
for listeners new and old.
Ordinary People shifts
gears, acting as a poignant social commentary. Here, Christie explores
themes of social division, consumerism, and the pressures of modern
life. The vivid imagery of "colour-coded tapestries" and
"travellers in time" highlights his knack for poetic lyricism.
The song's mid-tempo arrangement builds toward a compelling message
of unity and resilience in uncertain times. Christie's voice, while
softer and more measured than in his early career, still carries the
weight of the emotions he conveys, making this track a standout.
One of the album's highlights, Driving
Down to Memphis, takes a more personal, almost cinematic turn.
With its laid-back rhythm and sun-soaked, Americana-inspired feel,
the song transports listeners to a long, reflective drive through
the American South. Christie's imagery of "dust beneath my wheels"
and "a peaceful, easy feelin'" conjures a vivid, almost
nostalgic picture.
It's a song that celebrates freedom and the open
road, evoking a sense of wanderlust and escape from life's pressures.
The breezy guitar work, coupled with Christie's reflective lyrics,
creates a musical landscape that feels warm and inviting.
Another deeply emotional track is Better
By Now, a poignant exploration of love and relationships. Christie
examines the highs and lows of romantic partnerships, reflecting on
personal growth and the lessons learned along the way. The song's
laid-back instrumentation gives room for the reflective tone to shine,
while the chorus - "we should know better by now"- acts
as a melancholic mantra. It's a perfect example of Christie's lyrical
maturation, exploring personal themes with a subtlety and depth that
only comes from experience.
The track Building Bridges
is the album's emotional core. It's a hopeful message about reconciliation,
both personal and societal. With lines like "to surrender our
defenses, put away our wounded pride," Christie emphasises the
importance of empathy and understanding in a world that often feels
divided.
The steady, mid-tempo ballad builds with sweeping
strings and gentle percussion, closing the album on an optimistic
note. It's a reminder that, despite life's struggles, connection and
compassion can ultimately bring us together.
Here & Now solidifies
Jeff Christie's place as an enduring force in music. While it reflects
the wisdom of age, it never strays from the youthful spirit that made
his earlier work so beloved.
Fans of Christie's classic hits will find much to
appreciate here, while new listeners will be drawn to the album's
insightful lyrics and timeless sound. It's a testament to his ability
to stay relevant, yet true to his roots, after five decades in the
industry.
|
|