The Union

The Union is an amazing combination not only of the talents of Elton John and Leon Russell, but the producing magic of T-Bone Burnett, Bernie Taupin and a cast of many talented guest musicians.  Clearly a labor of love, Union is literally a beautiful tapestry of music that re-unites two old friends not just for a mutual admiration effort but a synergy of talent.  The sound is very Spartan and simple weaving two pianos into a sound that works...no frills.  Elton speaks in the liner notes of this being an effort that he has always wanted to accomplish....the only thing he had to do was to pick up the phone and call!  What an amazing assemblage of talent that includes Neil Young and Dennis Wilson doing back-up vocal duties.   T-Bone Burnett...need I say more? His contribution is clear with his reputation for getting artist's most heartfelt contributions combined with simplicity of production. The songs hawk back to the story-telling days of Elton John's "Tumbleweed Connection" or "Honky Chateau".  Truly one of the best releases of 2010.  Here's to hoping it brings the same amount of joy to you and yours!