The Rolling Stones released their 31st studio album, “Hackney Diamonds,” on Oct. 20, 2023.
The Rolling Stones released their 31st studio album, “Hackney Diamonds,” on Oct. 20, 2023, and it is a truly unforgettable one. With the magnificent minds of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, Elton John, Andrew Watt, Muddy Waters and so many more putting this album together, it’d be impossible for it to be a blunder; Especially with some of these artists having over 60 years of experience in the industry.
The album begins with the track “Angry,” which takes a modern, almost techno, spin on classic rock music. “Angry” was the first single released off of the album, making for a great lead off to this new era of one of the most influential rock bands. Although modernized, there is a vintage feel throughout the record, bringing back some original drumlines by Chris Watts and even producing the sound with antique microphones.
Paul McCartney is featured playing bass for “Bite My Head Off,” which is a breakup anthem depicting the angry stage following the end of a toxic relationship. Mick Jagger encourages McCartney mid-riff by yelling, “Come on, Paul. Let’s hear some bass.”
Alternate bassists featured on the album include Elton John on “Get Close” and “Live by the Sword,” and the band’s original bassist, Bill Wyman, also appearing on “Live by the Sword.” Although the newer generation did not grow up in the prime of these musicians, they still leave a nostalgic and reminiscent feeling within modern music culture. The implementation of these artists on the album also pulls a more classic feeling throughout each piece that they are featured.
Pop culture icons Lady Gaga and Stevie Wonder appear on piano and vocals in the second single released, titled “Sweet Sounds of Heaven.” The blend of Mick Jagger and Gaga’s voices is seamless and provides a heavenly, divine feeling to the piece which is perfect for the title of the track. Gaga’s feature in this piece adds a sense of modernity to the voices of the prominent classic rock icons.
The sweet sounds of classic rock music are back and trendier than ever. Releasing this album has single-handedly fed the hungry rock music fans that have been waiting to hear the minds of their favorite musicians preceding the twenty-first century.
