Elton John's sixth studio album, Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player, released in 1973, is another creative peak in John’s illustrious career. Combining his piano and vocal skills, with Bernie Taupin's vivid lyrics, results in a captivating musical journey full of eclectic rock, pop, and glam influences that longtime fans and newcomers alike will thoroughly enjoy.
Despite Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player being one of John’s greatest musically driven releases, the album artwork is simply exquisite and is a perfect example of evocative storytelling and how the artist need not be on the cover for it to be impactful. It’s also a perfect piece of cover art for the larger canvas of the vinyl record; a format that was at peak popularity when this album was released.
One unfortunate aspect, as I’ve yet to pick up a copy on vinyl, is that the sonic quality of the digital stream on Apple Music is adequate but substandard for the hits and album-only tunes on this record. Presented as a non-Apple Digital Master, and replicating the 1995 remastered edition, the lossless Apple Music stream simply sounds a little too flat for my liking with restricted dynamics and a shallow soundstage. Purists would argue, and I’d likely agree with them, that a vinyl option would be preferable for this particular release, but I can’t help but feel that what is ultimately needed is a respectful remaster. For instance, if I were to listen to Elton John’s self-titled second album and then follow it up with Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player, the sonic difference, from Apple Music alone, is so stark that this 1973 release simply can’t compete as it pertains to sonic pleasure. That said, an adjustment to your EQ settings may be all that is needed to reign in the sonic presentation; one closer to your liking.
Daniel is a lovely introspective and melodic opener. Add in John's piano and vocal melodies with Taupin's evocative lyrics and you’ve got a memorable tune that has remained a highlight within John’s back catalogue for decades.
Teacher I Need You offers a somewhat familiar nostalgic reflection of a schoolboy’s crush on his teacher; we’ve all been there, haven’t we? Nevertheless, from the very first note, we’re met with energetic piano riffs and catchy melodies that result in it being a fun little tune. It’s that simplicity and merriment that is sometimes all that is required to thoroughly enjoy music.
Elderberry Wine offers a blend of pop and rock influences, with a compelling piano arrangement and vocal delivery that ensures Elderberry Wine is exceptional and will likely result in an earworm; a thoroughly enjoyable one that will compel you to spin the album, and this song, again and again.
Blues For My Baby And Me is a beautiful ballad.
Midnight Creeper shifts the tone somewhat and while it’s initially a jolt to the senses, the groovy upbeat tune, driven by funky piano chords and a lively rhythm, is so appealing that you’ll slip right into the song and rock out.
Have Mercy On The Criminal is a masterpiece and is without a doubt one of John’s greatest recordings.
I'm Gonna Be A Teenage Idol has a spirited energetic rhythm and catchy chorus. It may be an album-only tune, but it’s one of John’s many hidden gems.
Texan Love Song is a considerable shift in the sequencing of the album and feels as if it would have been more suited to being included on Tumbleweed Connection. Nevertheless, while Texan Love Song is unlikely to be anyone’s favourite tune, it grows on you the more you listen to the record and becomes a natural progression in the linear structure of the album.
Crocodile Rock, with its 50s feel, is one of the most memorable tunes John has ever recorded. If nothing else, the inclusion of John playing a Farfisa organ gives Crocodile Rock its unique sonic quality; one that is quite whimsical.
High Flying Bird is a lovely closer that will compel you to play the album again. It may not be John’s most recognisable tune, but there’s just something about it, perhaps the harmonious vocals, that makes it thoroughly enjoyable.
In Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player, John's musical brilliance shines through with each carefully crafted note. This album stands as a further testament to his ability to captivate listeners with his virtuosic piano skills and emotive vocal storytelling. Ultimately, it is not only one of his greatest releases, but it is amongst the very best records released in the 70s.