A Fresh Start After a Long Hiatus
The Rolling Stones have broken a nearly twenty‑year silence with their latest studio effort, “Foreign Tongues”. Arriving less than three years after the well‑received “Hackney Diamonds”, the new record proves that the band’s recent creative surge is no accident. It also confirms that producer Andrew Watt has a Midas touch when working with legacy acts, having previously lent his skills to Elton John, Paul McCartney’s “The Boys of Dungeon Lane”, and now the Stones.
Production Excellence
From the opening notes, “Foreign Tongues” showcases a crisp, clear sound that contrasts with the gritty vibe hinted at by the lead single “Rough and Twisted”. The production, handled by Watt, balances modern clarity with the raw energy the group is known for. Steve Jordan’s drumming is a standout, delivering powerful beats on most tracks, while the late Charlie Watts makes a posthumous appearance on “Hit Me in the Head”. The guitar work of Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood cuts through the mix with trademark grit, giving each song a distinct edge.
Vocal Performance
Mick Jagger’s voice sounds cleaner and less processed than on the previous album, displaying a renewed vigor that has not been heard in years. He explores a broader range, employing falsetto in several places to add texture and emotion. The vocal improvement is especially evident on “In the Stars”, where Jagger belts with authority and nuance, proving that the frontman can still command the microphone after decades at the helm.
Key Tracks
The album opens with “Rough and Twisted”, a track built on a bluesy riff that instantly recalls classic Stones anthems like “Honky Tonk Woman”. Its infectious rhythm sets the tone for the entire record.
“In the Stars” follows as the vocal centerpiece, showcasing Jagger’s expanded range and providing a melodic highlight that stands out among the more rocking tracks.
“Ringing Hollow” offers a country‑infused groove reminiscent of “Midnight Rambler”. The lyrics touch on the band’s storied past with references to past indulgences and the life of a showman, delivering a reflective yet energetic performance.
“Back in Your Life”, the penultimate track, features an emotional guitar solo from Wood and explores the end of a romantic relationship with a glimmer of hope for friendship afterward. The theme of jealous or hopeless lovers recurs throughout the record, as evidenced on “Never Gonna Lose You”, where Jagger pleads for staying relevant in a lover’s life.
Richards takes the lead vocals on “Some of Us”, delivering a gritty refrain that adds variety to the album’s vocal lineup. Meanwhile, “Jealous Lover” pairs Richards’ shimmering guitar with Jagger’s high falsetto, and Darryl Jones’s bass line provides a groovy foundation that elevates the track.
The closing number is a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Beautiful Delilah”, a song the Stones have performed since the 1960s. This version adopts a slightly slower tempo and a more acoustic arrangement, differing from earlier up‑tempo renditions and offering a fitting end to the collection.
New Beginning
“Foreign Tongues” feels like a reintroduction of the classic Rolling Stones sound, wrapped in a modern production sheen. While it may not be as introspective as Watt’s recent work with Paul McCartney, the album captures the spirit of a band that continues to embrace its rock‑and‑roll roots. With strong performances from every member, crisp production, and a mix of new originals plus a thoughtful cover, “Foreign Tongues” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of The Rolling Stones.
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