The Rolling Stones Return with a Bang: Foreign Tongues
A Testament to Enduring Relevance
For a band that released its first album more than 62 years ago, the new Rolling Stones album, Foreign Tongues, isn’t just another late career release meant to bolster the discography of a band long past its prime. Instead, the Stones have released an album that stands as testimony that they are still a vibrant, confident, inspired and yes, relevant band even after seven decades of recording. Following on the heels of 2023’s acclaimed Hackney Diamonds, the Rolling Stones have upped the ante, delivering what is being touted by many critics as their best album since Tattoo You in 1981.
Modern Production with Classic Swagger
Produced once again by Andrew Watt, Foreign Tongues strikes a balance between sleek modern production and the raw swagger that has defined the band’s sound since the late 1960s. Rather than choosing to pursue the latest musical trends, the album embraces everything that has made the Stones an enduring musical force, furnishing their fans with a treasure trove of blues, rock, country, and soul, all served with the perfect amount of Rolling Stones’ attitude.
Opening with a Raucous Blues Rock Anthem
The album opens with the hard-driving “Rough and Twisted,” immediately announcing that Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood still have what it takes to create a raucous blues rocker of the first order. The result is a blues-laden romp that evokes some of the classic moments from their renowned work on Sticky Fingers and Exile on Main Street.
Collector’s Treasure: The Limited White Label Single
Leading up to the release of the new album, the band originally issued “Rough and Twisted” as a limited white label single under the pseudonym The Cockroaches, a name they had previously used when making a surprise club appearance leading up to their 1977 tour. With only 1,000 copies released worldwide, the white label version has become a highly sought after collector’s item.
Single Spotlight: “In the Stars”
“In the Stars”, the first single officially released for the album, is an irresistible melody that blends arena-ready hooks with classic Stones guitar interplay. The song explores fate, perseverance, and the idea that some destinies are written long before we recognize them. One of the most melodic, uplifting songs in the entire Stones catalog, “In the Stars” features a poignant and expressive vocal performance by Jagger, mixing his usually raspy baritone with a tender falsetto that fits the optimistic spirit of the song perfectly.
Lyrical Wit and Playfulness Across the Album
Throughout the album, Jagger’s lyrics maintain their trademark provocative spirit but sometimes take on a playful even jocular tone. Songs like the country-tinged “Ringing Hollow” approach social and political themes with wit rather than preachiness, while “Divine Intervention” takes on the topic of the apocalypse, mixing dark humor with surprisingly thoughtful reflections on modern life. The gloriously amusing “Mr. Charm” delivers a tongue-in-cheek bravado, even taking a shot at Elon Musk, the “mad mogul.”
Keith Richards’ Emotional Depth: “Some of Us”
One of the highlights of Foreign Tongues is Keith Richards’ “Some of Us.” His weathered voice carries an authentic level of emotion, providing a strong counterpoint to Jagger’s energetic performances on the rest of the album. The song reminds listeners that beneath the band’s larger-than-life persona lies a remarkable emotional depth. Lyrically, the song is about unconditional love and humility, with Richards confessing that genuine affection often requires patience, sacrifice, and the willingness to risk heartbreak.
Funk, Soul, and a Nod to the Past: “Jealous Lover”
“Jealous Lover,” the second official single from Foreign Tongues, harkens back to the infectious funk of the 1970s and 80s Stones’ tunes such as “Hot Stuff,” “Dance (Pt. 1)” and “Emotional Rescue.” The song immediately slips into a sleek, soulful R&B groove with Jagger’s falsetto vocals impeccably complimenting the deep pocket rhythm created by bassist Darryl Jones and drummer Steve Jordan.
A Fitting Tribute: “Hit Me in the Head” and Charlie Watts
“Hit Me in the Head” is one of the most ferocious tracks on the new album, and one of the shortest, clocking in at just under three minutes, but it is a powerhouse tune, accentuated by Richards’ explosive guitar riff. It also includes the only appearance on the album of the Stones’ late drummer Charlie Watts, recorded shortly before his death in 2021. Watts’ drumming drives the song and serves as a fitting final tribute to his distinctive style.
Blending Melodies and Emotions: “Covered In You”
The melodic “Covered In You” provides a pleasing blend of contemporary pop and blues rock grit that explores the emotional immersion that can happen in a relationship. Musically, the song is centered around a deep melodic bass line provided by guest musician Paul McCartney. Its contrasting verses and chorus evoke tension and tenderness, giving the song much of its emotional power.
Special Edition Bonus Track: A Duet of Reflection
For collectors, the special edition of Foreign Tongues includes a bonus track, “Bad Luck Hideaway,” a country/folk blues style song built around acoustic guitars, a warm organ, and a slow groove. Notably, it features a rare duet between Jagger and Richards, reminiscent of “Memory Motel” from Black and Blue.
Star-Studded Collaborations and Guest Appearances
In addition to McCartney, the album features collaborations with several notable musicians. Steve Winwood appears on nine tracks, adding a nostalgic touch reminiscent of their late 1960s sound. Robert Smith from The Cure makes contributions on vocals and synthesizer, while Bruno Mars, Benmont Tench, and Chad Smith add their unique touches.
A Return to Form: The Significance of Foreign Tongues
Foreign Tongues is certainly the best Rolling Stones studio album since the early 1980s, perhaps even surpassing Tattoo You in depth and quality. While Hackney Diamonds signaled a creative resurgence, this album takes it further, standing as their most complete work in decades. Though not quite reaching the heights of their legendary late 1960s and early 1970s classics, it is comparable to later albums like Some Girls.
Conclusion: A Satisfying Rock Revival
In the end, Foreign Tongues is a very satisfying album for long-time Rolling Stones enthusiasts and newer fans alike – indeed, it is only rock and roll, but I like it.
Group photo 1: The Rolling Stones Facebook
Group photo 2 by: Mark Seliger
