Most definately the genius that has been pretty universally accorded Fagan & Becker is displayed in this early example of their work. Like all real artists they both reflect and embody the times in which they lived, crafting a unique popular/rock song with musical sophistication and emotional charge, whilst story telling in often allegory filled poetic verses that subtly bring there message. And bonus: its multi-generational, giving what I believe is testament to mankind - especially our flaws and challenges.
Consider the reference to England's Richard the Lionhearted in juxtaposition to his successor King John who in one felt swoop through weakness was responsible for the Magna Carter (a cornerstone of democracy and human rights). This would be a great accomplishment if it ended right there. But it doesn't. Its easy to see the comparison to other "Kings" with adroit references that conjure up images of John F Kennedy,and settling in on Richard Nixon. Considering the album was released around / just before the 1972 election (which Nixon won in the largest presidential landslide until Regan was elected in 1984), it easily echoes Fagan & Beckers non-conservative leanings and disappointment with leaders like Nixon. Above and beyond, its a lesson / warning to future generations - perhaps even showing them what to watch for.
While often described as sardonic, perhaps sarcastic, dark, laced with drug references and other taboo topics, you really have to marvel at their ability to take a message with multi-generational relevance and present it in a popular song. The icing on the cake is their incredible and fanatical execution, setting them apart from everyone else in the music industry. They set a standard few if any could attain.
This is our Mozart, Beethoven and Bach. And should be taught and referenced and revered just like those masters.
Most definately the genius that has been pretty universally accorded Fagan & Becker is displayed in this early example of their work. Like all real artists they both reflect and embody the times in which they lived, crafting a unique popular/rock song with musical sophistication and emotional charge, whilst story telling in often allegory filled poetic verses that subtly bring there message. And bonus: its multi-generational, giving what I believe is testament to mankind - especially our flaws and challenges.
Consider the reference to England's Richard the Lionhearted in juxtaposition to his successor King John who in one felt swoop through weakness was responsible for the Magna Carter (a cornerstone of democracy and human rights). This would be a great accomplishment if it ended right there. But it doesn't. Its easy to see the comparison to other "Kings" with adroit references that conjure up images of John F Kennedy,and settling in on Richard Nixon. Considering the album was released around / just before the 1972 election (which Nixon won in the largest presidential landslide until Regan was elected in 1984), it easily echoes Fagan & Beckers non-conservative leanings and disappointment with leaders like Nixon. Above and beyond, its a lesson / warning to future generations - perhaps even showing them what to watch for.
While often described as sardonic, perhaps sarcastic, dark, laced with drug references and other taboo topics, you really have to marvel at their ability to take a message with multi-generational relevance and present it in a popular song. The icing on the cake is their incredible and fanatical execution, setting them apart from everyone else in the music industry. They set a standard few if any could attain.
This is our Mozart, Beethoven and Bach. And should be taught and referenced and revered just like those masters.