Ringo Starr, the iconic drummer of The Beatles, has released a surprising new album at the age of 84: ‘Look Up’. A country record, more than fifty years after his first foray into the genre with ‘Beaucoups Of Blues’ (1970).
That album was an underrated gem at the time, recorded in Nashville with a selection of country musicians. With ‘Look Up’, Starr returns to his beloved genre, this time under the wings of renowned producer and songwriter T Bone Burnett. The result is an accessible and organic album that combines old nostalgia and modern finesse.
Starr’s connection with country has long been known. As early as 1965, he covered Buck Owens’ Act Naturally on the Beatles album ‘Help!’ and his own songs such as Don’t Pass Me By also bore clear country influences. That he is now returning to his roots after decades of musical wanderings feels natural and fitting. His voice – warm, fragile and raw – lends itself perfectly to the melancholy and simplicity of country music.
An album that thrives on collaboration ։ Although Ringo is the name on the cover, it is unmistakable that ‘Look Up’ is a collective work. T Bone Burnett, known for his collaborations with Bob Dylan, Elvis Costello and Alison Krauss, among others, leaves a clear mark on the record. He wrote nine of the eleven songs and took care of the production. The modern, yet subdued sound emphasizes Starr’s limited, but expressive voice. In addition, the contributions of young talents such as Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle and Larkin Poe provide fresh energy and a contemporary edge.
The opener Breathless sets the tone with Starr’s characteristic drum fills and a rockabilly vibe, complemented by nimble guitar playing by Billy Strings. The title track Look Up is a highlight: a stirring country-rocker with an infectiously positive message, subtly undercut by Starr’s dryly comic Liverpudlian vocals. Never Let Me Go flirts with Merseybeat nostalgia, complete with a harmonica that recalls The Beatles’ early years. The harmonies between Starr and Molly Tuttle on I Live for Your Love are an emotional highlight, while Rosetta adds a bold edge with its gritty guitar and fiery vocals from Larkin Poe.
Strong moments, but not without flaws ։ While the album has strong songs, it also has its weaker moments. Tracks such as Time on My Hands and You Want Some, where Starr sings solo, lack the expressiveness and dynamism of his duets. Starr’s voice has the charm, but not always the strength, to stand on its own two feet. On the other hand, he is surrounded by artists who complement his shortcomings and lift songs like Thankful and Come Back to greater heights.
A downside is that Starr’s expressive percussion, with which he always managed to shine as a drummer, is largely pushed to the background here. Only on Breathless does he really let his drumming style speak. Still, this remains a detail in an album that is otherwise convincing due to its honesty and warmth.
Conclusion։ – ‘Look Up’ proves that Ringo Starr, even at his advanced age, remains relevant. The album is not a masterpiece, but it is sincere, charming and made with love. Starr embraces his country dreams with a mix of nostalgia and contemporary influences, supported by an impressive cast of musicians. This album not only shows Starr’s own talent, but also shines a spotlight on younger artists. ‘Look Up’ is therefore a worthy addition to the legacy of the most amiable Beatle. A must-have for fans of both Starr and the country music genre.
Tracks:
01. Breathless
02. Look Up
03. Time On My Hands
04. Never Let Me Go
05. I Live For Your Love
06. Come Back
07. Can You Hear Me Call
08. Rosetta
09. You Want Some
10. String Theory
11. Thankful
