- "Paper Gods" (feat. Mr Hudson) - 7:04
- "Last Night in the City" (feat. Kiesza) - 4:44
- "You Kill Me With Silence" - 4:26
- "Pressure Off" (feat. Janelle Monáe and Nile Rodgers) - 4:21
- "Face for Today" - 3:52
- "Danceophobia" - (feat. Lindsay Lohan) - 4:14
- "What are the Chances?" - 4:55
- "Sunset Garage" - 4:43
- "Change the Skyline" (feat. Jonas Bjerre) - 3:57
- "Butterfly Girl" - 3:15
- "Only in Dreams" - 6:05
- "The Universe Alone" - 5:48
- "Planet Roaring" - 3:49
- "Valentine Stones" - 3:30
- "Northern Lights" - 5:13
- "On Evil Beach" (also available on the Japanese edition) - 2:48
- "Cinderella Ride" - 3:56
- What are the Chances (5 Stars): Amazing Vocals by Simon and Guitar work by John Frusciante. Audio Only Video.
- Pressure Off (5 Stars): The best song of the Album. Great work by all of them. MV directed by Nick Egan.
- Last Night in the City (4 Stars): It is a nice groovy and hip track featuring Kiesza.
Here is a summary of the 3 songs.
"What Are the Chances"
Album: Paper Gods (2015)
Band Members: Simon Le Bon (vocals), Nick Rhodes (keyboards), John Taylor (bass), Roger Taylor (drums). Guest appearance by John Frusciante (guitar).
Vocals: Simon Le Bon delivers an earnest and evocative performance, pondering themes of fate and destiny. His vocals are a key element, carrying the philosophical weight of the lyrics.
Instruments: The song is a new-wave anthem with a soaring electronic arrangement. It features skittering digital hi-hats and synth pads that create an orchestral texture. The epic sound is reinforced by a wailing lead guitar solo from former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist, John Frusciante.
Composition: A melancholic synth-pop track that builds into a grand, sweeping soundscape. It's a ballad that showcases the band's ability to create a sense of scale and emotion.
Interesting Facts: The song features a guest appearance from John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The album Paper Gods is notable for its diverse collaborations, a deliberate choice by the band to avoid a "comfort zone."
Recording & Production Quality: The production is high-quality, with a polished, modern sound that still retains the band's signature electronic and new-wave elements. The production gives the song a cinematic feel.
Overall Impact: The song is a powerful and philosophical ballad, showcasing the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their new-wave roots. It's a testament to their longevity and willingness to experiment with new collaborators.
"Pressure Off"
Album: Paper Gods (2015)
Band Members: Simon Le Bon (vocals), Nick Rhodes (keyboards), John Taylor (bass), Roger Taylor (drums). Guest appearances by Janelle Monáe (vocals) and Nile Rodgers (guitar).
Vocals: Simon Le Bon's vocals are flamboyant and optimistic, embodying the song's carefree theme. Janelle Monáe's guest vocals add a soulful and modern touch, elevating the track's funky vibe.
Instruments: The song features a funky disco-rock arrangement, with prominent guitar work from Nile Rodgers, whose signature "uptown funk" style is unmistakable. The track is built on a solid groove, with a "disco-rock armory" of instruments.
Composition: A light, fun, and frothy song about letting go and easing up. The composition is catchy and danceable, a "foolproof" pop anthem.
Interesting Facts: This song is a major collaboration, featuring Janelle Monáe and Nile Rodgers, a long-time collaborator of the band who produced their classic album Notorious. It was a key track on the album and was praised for its positive, feel-good energy.
Recording & Production Quality: Produced by Mark Ronson and Mr Hudson, the production is slick and soulful, with a clean, modern sound that harks back to the best of 80s pop production. The collaboration of these producers gives the album a unique, eclectic flavor.
Overall Impact: "Pressure Off" was a significant single from Paper Gods, demonstrating that Duran Duran could still produce a major hit that felt both fresh and nostalgic. It was a successful example of their continuing authority on pop music and the power of their collaborations.
"Last Night in the City"
Album: Paper Gods (2015)
Band Members: Simon Le Bon (vocals), Nick Rhodes (keyboards), John Taylor (bass), Roger Taylor (drums). Guest appearance by Kiesza (vocals).
Vocals: Simon Le Bon's vocals are complemented by a guest vocal performance from Kiesza. The blend of their voices creates a dynamic interplay, with Kiesza adding a powerful, dance-oriented dimension.
Instruments: The song has a driving electronic rhythm, featuring syncopated percussion and prominent keyboard riffs. The bassline, as is typical of Duran Duran, is a strong and melodic element. The track is built for the dancefloor, with a high-energy feel.
Composition: This is an uptempo dance track that fits the "night out" theme of the title. The composition is energetic and propulsive, designed to be a club anthem.
Interesting Facts: The song features a collaboration with Canadian singer Kiesza. The track was also a popular choice for remixes, with an EP dedicated to various versions of the song.
Recording & Production Quality: The production is crisp and powerful, with a focus on a clean, driving beat. It's a very modern-sounding track that fits well within the contemporary dance-pop genre while still retaining a distinct Duran Duran flavor.
Overall Impact: "Last Night in the City" demonstrates the band's continued relevance and ability to create a modern dance-pop track that is both a successful collaboration and a showcase of their core sound. It's a song that captures the spirit of a vibrant night out and serves as a testament to their adaptability.
- Universe Alone (3 Stars)
