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Who says you can't mingle classical with punk? Furthermore, who says you have to have a guitar if you're going to release music as a band?

Joe Jackson takes being original to a new level with his new album, Rain which releases on January 29, 2008. His style and sound have come a long way since 1979 when his debut album, Look Sharp, released on A&M Records. You might recognize his first hit single, "Is She Really Going Out With Him?" I love that song and am humming it to myself now that it has been mentioned. Since 1979, he has worked across the spectrum of genres producing everything from classical, swing, punk to urban pop and then some.

When asked about the new album title, Joe explained "I wanted something elemental because that's the kind of album I wanted to make. There is no padding on it at all; the album is stripped to the bare essentials, so I hope it has a timeless quality. The title seems to fit."

Rain was recorded last summer in Berlin, and yes it is true, Joe Jackson opted not to include a guitar in the music. In place of the usual, he produces vibrant and passionate piano induced songs that are just soaked in sprightliness. Graham Maby (bass/vocals) and Dave Houghton (drums/vocals) have worked with Joe Jackson on past albums and they are the back end bass of the album as well as the harmonizing vocalists incorporated throughout.

When listening to "Invisible Man" I had mixed feelings about the song because in the beginning it seemed to be all over the place, but as I got about half way through the track and hit his piano solo, I was overwhelmed. There are a few sections in which all sounds drops out except for the piano and it is those portions of the song that made me want to hear more of the album. It left me wondering what he must have been feeling and thinking as his fingers danced across the keys.

"King of Pleasure" is more upbeat and reminiscent of his earlier music.

And so, without making you wait any longer...

Listen:
Joe Jackson - "The Invisible Man" (mp3)
Joe Jackson - "King Pleasure Time" (mp3) (Kudos to wendyo for the track title correction)

Buy Rain (w/ bonus DVD)

Labels: Joe Jackson