66

Paul Weller

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Review

Paul Weller’s album *66* is a reflective and richly textured work that finds the legendary British artist embracing maturity with grace and curiosity. Released on the cusp of his 66th birthday, the album serves as both a celebration and a meditation on aging, creativity, and legacy. Musically, *66* blends Weller’s signature melodic craftsmanship with subtle experimentation. Tracks like *Flying Fish* and *Rise Up Singing* showcase his ability to fuse classic soul, jazz, and indie folk without sounding retro or overwrought. The sound is warm and organic, with arrangements that breathe and evolve, supported by his seasoned band and tasteful orchestration. Lyrically, Weller remains introspective, touching on themes of time, purpose, and resilience. Guest contributions, such as Noel Gallagher’s co-writing on *Jumble Queen*, add texture without overshadowing Weller’s vision. While it may not have the immediate punch of his early work, *66* resonates with depth and emotional maturity, making it one of his most rewarding late-career projects. Overall, *66* stands as a testament to Paul Weller’s enduring artistry—a gracefully crafted album that invites contemplation and reveals new layers with each listen.

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Info

"66" is the seventeenth solo studio album by British singer-songwriter Paul Weller. It was released on May 24, 2024, in the UK and US, coinciding with Weller's 66th birthday, which is reflected in the album’s title. The album was released through Polydor Records and features a blend of soul, jazz, rock, and Weller’s signature songwriting style. It was recorded at Black Barn Studios, Weller’s own studio located in Surrey, England. "66" was produced by Paul Weller alongside longtime collaborators such as Charles Rees and Jan Stan Kybert, contributing to its rich, eclectic sound and tight production. In the UK, the album achieved commercial success, debuting at number 1 on the Official Albums Chart. In the US, while not charting on the Billboard 200, it found a place on the UK-centric indie and vinyl charts among American audiences. "66" features contributions from guest artists including Noel Gallagher and Suggs, underscoring Weller's enduring relevance in the music scene and his continued innovation as an artist well into his sixth decade.

Tracklisting

  1. Ship Of Fools
  2. Flying Fish
  3. Jumble Queen
  4. Nothing
  5. My Best Friend's Coat
  6. Rise Up Singing
  7. I Woke Up
  8. A Glimpse Of You
  9. Sleepy Hollow
  10. In Full Flight
  11. Soul Wandering
  12. Burn Out
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