If I were to comprise a short list of individuals that I would love to sit down and just have an open-ended conversation with, Andrew W.K. would be at the head of that list. No doubt in my mind. For whatever reason, everything that he does has me on the edge of my seat.
The multi-talented W.K. returns with 55 Cadillac, eight recordings that are classified as "spontaneous solo piano improvisations." And that is exactly what you get with the forty minutes that make up this latest recording from the enigmatic musician.
The album opens with "Begin the Engine." The song starts off with the sounds of an automobile turning over before we have Andrew W.K. showcase his talents beyond the world of partying. The song has a mild opening of cool, delicate keys. As the song runs it course throughout the eight-minutes, W.K. steers the song in different directions. The middle section boasts heavy thumping of the keys, which slowly transforms its way into lower tones providing a steady background for his dancing higher-pitched keys. It's truly a magical listen and flows seamlessly from start to finish.
"Seeing the Car" is a short three-minute piece that actually hints at pop leanings. You can easily hear a voice being partnered with the music and the end result being a well orchestrated pop song. Or if you're a W.K. fan, it could surely be another party anthem in the making. This song just furthered my interest in his songwriting process; perhaps this is just how he writes his music. Starting on the piano and then moving to a full band.
W.K. continues his piano adventure with "Night Driver," a bizarre song that mixes multiple styles. There are moments of somber down tempo playing, and then there are points during the piece that bring to mind show tunes and musicals. Even further down the line there are free-jazz meanderings and hand drumming on the grand piano. Even with the varying styles, he brings it all together.
In addition to finding ways to uplift the listener, the music of 55 Cadillac can evoke other emotions. "City Time" is a very dramatic and dark toned piece; I felt almost uneasy while listening to it. "Car Nightmare" also evokes feelings of uneasiness with hints of desperation in the playing of W.K. - it's rather alarming how moving he can be with just a piano.
The album concludes with "Cadillac," which is a four-minute musical affirmation. This is the sound an individual playing his hearts desire. As the song nears it close, you begin to notice additional instrumentation with beeps and bops of electronic elements added. And the very end of the song concludes with the addition of an electric guitar. Perhaps this is a foreshadowing of what is to come.
55 Cadillac is no doubt one of the most unique albums of 2009. With it, Andrew W.K. has further showcased his talents and I couldn't be happier with the result. I don't know whom this album should appeal to, but I do know that everyone needs to listen to this album. It is truly something special.
