'Hackney Diamonds' shines as bright as Rolling Stones' extraordinary legacy

Artist: The Rolling Stones

Title: Hackney Diamonds (Geffen Records)

Tell me more: More than 60 years into their sensational run, The Rolling Stones have returned with a true masterwork. Hackney Diamonds is an ambitious album that finds Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood delivering a masterful celebration of their signature sound infused with enough contemporary sonics to surprise across the 12-song set.

With drummer Steve Jordan playing drum across the majority of the album tracks in the place of the late drummer Charlie Watts (the latter who passed away in August 2021 at the age of 80), an all-star cast of greats add their respective talents with a collective focus on the songs. Producer Andrew Watt's role is likely another major element in the ambition and success of the album, the British band's first new full-length disc of new material since 2005's A Bigger Bang.

Indeed, the stellar production heard across the album is equaled by the strength and diversity of the song craft as well as the inspired performances of the players. And Jagger sounds outstanding across the title delivering vocals that are strong and stirring.

Hackney Diamonds' lead single "Angry" is among the album's more signature rockers, with Jagger's emotional appeal for forgiveness delivered against an uptempo beat and sharp guitar work from Richards and Wood. 

But it are the album's deep cuts and the diversity of material that make Hackney Diamonds a genuinely magnificent gem. 

None of the dozen selections on the album is a throw away. The band can be heard revisiting past glories with a decidedly fresh approach while also frequently expanding its musical palette.

"Get Close" is anchored by some sizzling guitar work. A melodic chorus and top-tier sax playing bolster the song. "Depending On You" is a beautiful country-tinged ballad. With its gorgeous arrangement, the semi-acoustic song is deeply affecting. 

One of the biggest surprises on the album is the aptly-titled "Bite My Head Off," a true punk rock foray featuring Paul McCartney on bass. Listening to the edgy cut is to be reminded of the ferocity of the Sex Pistols. No mere curiosity, the punk rock-edged track hits home.

Among other standouts on Hackney Diamonds are the country blues nugget "Dreamy Skies," the bewitching blues rocker "Live By The Sword" (the latter featuring the late Watts, former Stones bassist Bill Wyman and pianist Elton John) and the amazing gospel-meets-soul track "Sweet Sounds Of Heaven" featuring guests Lady Gaga (vocals) and Stevie Wonder (keyboards).

Richards is featured on lead vocals on the luxurious track "Tell Me Straight," anchored by some particularly lovely guitar work.

My favorite track is "Whole Wide World," a song that somehow blends the best of 1980s alternative rock with the Stones' timeless approach. The guitars are razor sharp and the explosive chorus is pure ear candy. Jagger's lyrics are especially poignant:

When the whole wide world is against you
And you’re standin’ in the rain
When all you friends have left you down and treat you with disdain
When the whole wide world’s against you
And life’s got you on the run
And you think the party’s over
But it’s only just begun

The album's final track," Rolling Stone Blues," is a winning traditional acoustic blues cover of Muddy Waters' 1950 classic "Rolling Stone" (the song that is said to have inspired the band's name). A wonderful track to bring The Rolling Stones' singular journey full circle.

Information: rollingstones.com.

Robert Kinsler