In 2014, after a 16 year absence, Christine McVie returned to the Fleetwood Mac fold for a worldwide tour and began writing music again with Lindsey Buckingham. The two bandmates have always had a special chemistry writing together so when Stevie Nicks made it clear that she didn’t want to make any more Fleetwood Mac albums, Buckingham and McVie decided to forge ahead on their own and the result is something quite magical, culminating in the releaase of their first album together as a duo. Fleetwood Mac bandmates, drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie, provide the rhythm section so what we have here is a veritable Fleetwood Mac album minus Nicks.
The new album is full of pop genius as only Buckingham and McVie can provide. From the opening track “Sleeping Around The Corner” with its laidback feel and jangling guitar to the funky beats of “Too far Gone” the sound is simply superb. The male/female vocal stylings really make this record pop with a brilliantly done contrast between the gritty pipes of Buckingham and the beautiful open flow provided by McVie. “Game of Pretend” is a true showcase for the talents of McVie as she absolutley shines on this piano ballad. Buckingham does some extraordinary guitar work as well with a poignant solo on “Red Sun” and exceptional work on the album closer “Carnival Begin.”
Sonically the record is smooth as silk with clear tones and impeccable musicianship. Buckingham and McVie are outstanding on their own but as a team they easily live up to their rock legend status with an album of pure pop brilliance.
