It's hard to explain SuperHeavy, the new album released by the group of the same name. The band is a project of Dave Stewart (of Eurythmics) who recruited a quintet of big-name musicians from diverse genres. The result is the "supergroup" SuperHeavy, consisting of Stewart, Mick Jagger, Joss Stone, Indian film composer A.R. Rahman, and Bob Marley's son, Damian Marley. Each track on the funky album is something different. Quality also runs the gamut: some songs are excellent while others are uninspired. But even on the lesser tracks they have infectious energy and enthusiasm.
The group's first single, "Miracle Worker," is a standout track. Like most of the album it is difficult to pin into a genre, but when pressed one might say it's reggae. This tune has Sir Jagger playing the "miracle worker," a gypsy doctor who fixes love problems. It is an upbeat, catchy song that reveals SuperHeavy's miscellaneous strengths.
Another superb track is "Rock Me Gently." Marley, whose usual contribution is rapping, sings the opening and a few verses throughout the rest of the song. This rare moment reveals his rough but sweet and melodic voice. Stone also shines on this track; her over-the-top voice comes in at just the right moments.
"Unbelievable" is also a great song. It's a soulful, danceable mix. Jagger takes the lead on this one, showing off his sly words and unmistakable voice. There are a few more interesting tracks, including the fun brag-song, "SuperHeavy."
The Indian-influenced "Sataymeva Jayathe" and "Mahiya" are very pretty. "I Don't Mind" is catchy once it gets going. Marley's and Stone's parts are the highlight.
"Never Gonna Change" is also good. Jagger sings to a mournful, twanging melody that has a certain charm. The song sounds like an acceptable, but not incredible Stones recording. The rest of the album is lacking. "One Day One Night" is blatantly stupid. Marley and Jagger moan and groan in silly stream-of-consciousness about being drunk and lonely. Actually, if you see it as comedy (which may have been their intent), the track is not so bad. But that's entirely too much effort to put into an uninspired song.
"Beautiful People" is rather bad, a rehash of bland pop-song ideas. Also, too much Stone. She's wonderful when used sparingly, but too much of her intense vocals can be grating. "I Can't Take It No More" is a classic Jagger Rock song. It has a good beat, but the lyrics are ridiculous. The sound of the vocals is enjoyable, but don't listen to the words. You'd think with his considerable experience, Jagger could do better than elementary moralizing. Unfortunately, as the sole writer, Mick is the only one to blame for this pathetic political disaster.
The songs of SuperHeavy are a mixed bunch. The album is full of energy, (one track is fittingly named "Energy") and is worth a listen. The good ones are great, but the few clunkers drag the album down.
SuperHeavy is an experiment, and mostly it works. Not every song holds up, but it's a valiant effort. In rhythm and melody especially, SuperHeavy excels. Overall the album is not bad, but most listeners should probably just go for the highlights.
