Paul McCartney – McCartney II

These Australian cassette pressings sound pretty good.
I have a copy of this where the Sides have been misprinted - Side 1 is actually Side 2 and vice versa. Nice little quirk.

Interesting release that shows McCartney was prepared to have a go at something and be criticised for it. I'd imagine at the time it sounded more fresh than it does now whether people liked it or not. I'd like to know for this specific release what the original inner sleeve was.

Indeed a great sounding press, and a super cool 7” one sided promo nice

Temporary...secretary

Bought it used and this is a nice pressing, last track (One of These Days) sounds lovely

Very nice pressing ! It didn't cost me a huge amount of money, the vinyl is flat and quiet and very well mastered

Paul brings on the weird funk with this bizarre-but-cool 1980 LP. There were a couple of hits such as the classic Macca ballad ‘Waterfalls’ and the sprightly, snappy pop-funk of ‘Coming Up’. The rest of the album goes into uncharted territory though with songs like the bleeping electro-pop oddity ‘Temporary Secretary’, the somnambulent, echo-laden gem ‘On The Way’ and the thudding garage-band rocker ‘Nobody Knows’.

Best of all is the kids-play-Kraftwerk pulse of ‘Front Parlour’, the cracking, minimalist synth-funk of ‘Frozen Jap’ and the tasty, swirling electro-snap that is ‘Darkroom’.

Maybe I’m weird, but for me, this is Macca’s best album!

"McCartney II" is a fascinating and experimental album that showcases Paul McCartney's innovative spirit. Released in 1980, this record stands out as a personal project recorded in his home studio, giving it a unique, intimate feel.

What strikes me about this album is its eclectic sound. McCartney ventures into various musical styles, blending elements of rock, pop, and electronic music. It's a bit quirky, which may take some time to fully appreciate, especially for those accustomed to his work with The Beatles. The rawness of the home studio recordings adds a layer of authenticity, making each track feel spontaneous and genuine.

While some songs may seem unconventional, they reveal McCartney's boldness as an artist. Tracks like "Temporary Secretary" and "Coming Up" highlight his willingness to experiment, pushing the boundaries of traditional songwriting. This is not your typical McCartney fare, and that’s what makes it so intriguing.

Overall, "McCartney II" is a rewarding listening experience for anyone willing to embrace its uniqueness. It’s an album that reflects McCartney’s creative exploration, proving once again why he remains a pivotal figure in the world of rock and roll.

Etched markings do not quite match the version I have . W-7 F2 / W-4?? No mention of Blair??

Temporary Secretary is the best song Paul has ever written solo and I don't care what anyone thinks. Genius is never appreciated in its time!!!

The runout label on my copy of the "Coming Up (Live at Glasgow)" single matches this variation of the McCartney II album but the runout etchings of my McCartney II record does not match this version.