Paul Weller will release a new studio album in May called, simply, “66“. In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, few artists possess the enduring influence and innovative spirit of Paul Weller. A recording career that began in 1977, now takes in the release of his 17th solo album. As the title and artwork by Sir Peter Blake (his first for Weller since 1995’s Stanley Road) indicates, the album marks the completion of his 66th journey around the sun. ’66’ is quite a reflective and inward thinking album that pulls back the camera lens and shines a light on the way Weller’s creativity interacts with his wider world. Continually finding new ways to alchemise the miracle of living and the meaning of it all, he draws on fragments of real life, ruminations on spirituality and even childhood memories. There are songs touching on faith, changing circumstances and the fractured realities of life in this turbulent age. But ’66’ is positive at heart, bursting with the wisdom and perspective accrued by the business of someone who has really lived and loved.
The 12 songs on 66 were worked up in Weller’s Black Barn studio over the course of three years with various guest musicians, including Dr Robert, Richard Hawley, Steve Brooks and Max Beesley
There are lyrical contributions from Suggs, Noel Gallagher and Bobby Gillespie (‘Ship Of Fools’, ‘Jumble Queen’ and ‘Soul Wondering’ respectively) and Weller shares production duties on a few tracks with Christophe Vaillant, White Label and Charles Rees. String arrangements are by Hannah Peel.
‘Soul Wandering’, although apparently “the first proper single” will be ‘Rise Up Singing’ which will be made available on 5th April.
As well as vinyl and CD there’s a 2CD set packaged in deluxe hardcover book format, with four extra tracks on the second disc. As you’d expect there’s various coloured vinyl editions which all come with a 12-page booklet and foldout poster.
“66” :: The new album by Paul Weller Released May 24th — a day before his 66th birthday
The Fat Angel Sings 