Foreign Tongues: A Late-Career Triumph
The Rolling Stones have released their 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues, continuing the rejuvenated sound of 2023's Hackney Diamonds. Mick Jagger declared, "The thing about this record is, the Stones are a rock band that also has the capacity to do ballads, country music or dance music. So we don't get stuck in one kind of style." The album showcases the band's signature sound while confronting war, autocracy, and mortality.
Stomping Openers and Blues Roots
The album opens with "Rough and Twisted," a raucous stomp referencing early love of Chicago blues ("All I drank was Muddy Waters"). "In the Stars" leans into blues mythology, with Jagger singing, "I was standing there when the lightning struck," and questioning, "Do you wanna dance until the roof caves in? / Yeah, and the guitars scream and the choir still sings."
Political Edge and Modern Sound
Several songs speak truth to power, particularly in the US. "Ringing Hollow" includes the line, "Lady Liberty don't look so good when there's a tear in her gown." In "Covered in You," Jagger sings of being "sick and tired of all these autocrats / You know, they seem to be breeding like a swarm of dirty rats with their missiles on parade." The punkier "Mr Charm" rails against "mad mogul Mr Musk" and those focused solely on making money.
Vulnerability and Guest Appearances
Keith Richards delivers a touching vocal on "Some of Us" ("are on our knees"), offering a glimpse behind his wildman image. The album features guest appearances from Steve Winwood (organ), Paul McCartney, Robert Smith of the Cure, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, and Bruno Mars on cowbell. Charlie Watts drums posthumously on "Hit Me in the Head," recorded in 2021.
Tender Moments and Ballads
Jagger cues Ronnie Wood for a gut-wrenching guitar solo on "Back in Your Life." The album includes a cover of Amy Winehouse's "You Know I'm No Good," with Jagger playing harmonica. "Jealous Lover" shifts to a slinky disco number reminiscent of "Miss You" or "Emotional Rescue."
Conclusion: Best Material in Decades
While Foreign Tongues doesn't match the holy run from Beggars Banquet (1968) or Some Girls, it is comfortably the band's best material in decades when paired with Hackney Diamonds. The album is set for release on July 10.
