Madman Across The Water - Elton John | College Students' FIRST TIME REACTION!

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[@melisaharris116]

1971 I was as a sophomore in high school when this album came out. This album is epic. They don’t make music like this anymore and never will. I’m so glad to see two young men experiencing this music.

[@HamiltonRb]

For style, tone and quality of vocals, I think Ed Sheeran is similar to Elton, and both easily sell out arenas. Have seen them both live and enjoyed them both

[@tartanphantom]

@@HamiltonRb Interesting that you say that, because the very first time I heard a song by Sheehan, I didn't know who it was, and I thought the vocals sounded very late-era EJ-ish.

[@cesarnarro6013]

I was a sophomore as well in 71. This was the first Elton John song i ever heard and it's still my favorite from him to this day.

[@kcronin7211]

I think there are songs being written that are musically complex, but those artists aren't selling out arenas anymore. One I like is Midlake. Another is White Demin, whom Andy played in the extended live stream at Halloween. Of course Elton John is a masterful songwriter and a totally unique voice - but to just glibly say "they never will/they don't" make music like this is pretty self-limiting IMO. Just gotta look for it.

[@HamiltonRb]

@@kcronin7211 I feel the same in that every genre has the music they grew up on, in my case 60’s and 70’s, and every generation thinks their music was the best. I enjoy music & sports, and I’m not going to stop going to concerts or sports events now, just because it was not the same bands or athletes I grew up with

[@mikeb3835]

He wasn't struggling to hit the high notes, he was trying to add emotion in certain parts, which I loved.

[@lauraallen55]

Exactly, not strained sounding to my ears either, more of mood/emotion to go with the atmosphere and them of the song.

[@jamesferrell336]

I think the frailty in Elton's voice was him trying to make the song not sound overproduced.

[@billowens8051]

Agreed - it was all about the emotion. Hell, the guy had a 3 or 4 octave range.

[@jibteenuc9836]

Agreed. It's about a mad man. He was expressing such mania in an astutely manic, but not banally obvious, manner. Bowie does similar on the, quite brilliant, "All the Madmen" from his The Man Who Sold The World album.

[@neuvocastezero1838]

With his range, he doesn't struggle much with notes.

[@1bigrowdy]

This album and Tumbleweed connection are a must listen.

[@matthewchance8835]

On Tumbleweed Connection there's the song "Where To Now St. Peter?" which is so great.

[@sixbladeknife44]

The remastered version has the original version of Madman which was recorded during those sessions with Mick Ronson wailing on guitar and sans orchestration…sublime. Tumbleweed is Elton’s best album IMO.

[@carol-mariefleming8689]

Also "Come Down In Time" from Tumbleweed Connection is a gem.

[@joeyrobison6629]

@@matthewchance8835 That one and "Burn Down The Mission" is my favorite!

[@stevemalek2970]

I'd add cpt. fantastic as well as Goodbye Yellow Brick road. Elton John has too many great albums and songs!

[@dabigsqueezy]

My favorite Elton John album. His voice was so raw back then. I think this was some of his most purely artistic work.

[@joannwoodworth8920]

Agreed!

[@jamesferrell336]

Always been my favorite

[@jibteenuc9836]

You're in good company because it's also Elton's favourite album and favourite track (as are they mine - but that doesn't matter quite so much - lol).

[@samplerstitcher]

@@jibteenuc9836 It has always been my fav since I heard it the first time....cool that it is EJs' fav too....

[@opalviking]

This is one of my favorite Elton John arrangements.

[@rushgal68]

Me too. I love the version off The Tumbleweed Collection....

[@davethewave62]

The Strings are actually a Paul Buckmaster arrangement.

[@robertknuist9754]

Check out the version he does with Mick Ronson

[@rushgal68]

@@robertknuist9754 Off the Tumbleweed Collection...

[@opalviking]

@@davethewave62 AcTuAlLy ThIs Is An ElToN JoHn ApPrOvEd ArRaNgEmEnT. Jesus, why can’t anyone on the internet infer deeper into a statement? As a huge EJ fan, I’m insulted that you presume to know that I don’t know the specifics. But even if I didn’t, damn, do I have to recite his entire musical career or can’t I just say “I love this” and not have someone try to educate me on shit I already know but don’t type out? “The Elton John conglomerate did a wonderful job on this track.” Better? Geebus.

[@andyb7942]

I think the vocal frailty was very much on purpose-demonstrating the disintegrating psyche of the narrator. Prime EJ era-4th album release in a little more than a year and a half. An incredibly fertile period matched by few artists ever. You are the best musical reactors by far, gents! Thanks for allowing us to re-live music that meant so much growing up ❤

[@davesparks9503]

Absolutely.

[@lauraallen55]

I was just saying in another reply that this didn't come across as straining, but rather as lending mood/emotion to the whole atmosphere. Brilliant.

[@Mona.555]

I can’t believe you’re finally reacting this song. Unbelievable song. Before he went Pop. Early Elton is incredible.

[@bobbrown5951]

This is arguably one of his all time best albums. My favourite song on it and much lesser known gem is Indian Sunset. A classic!

[@mals4125]

Indian Sunset - just an unbelievable song..so gives me tingles down my spine when I hear it.

[@gaycha6589]

Same here. The string arrangements are stellar

[@kitkakitteh]

Love that one, too. But I find myself singing Holiday Inn and Rotten Peaches. Earlier this week, in fact. 😂

[@bodhisattva3774]

My favorite Elton song I've been requesting for years. What an amazing and powerful arrangement.

[@joelliebler5690]

One of the best rock or pop song ever with incredible arrangement of this full orchestra and Elton’s unbelievable vocals. An S if there ever was one! This is not a song, it is an experience!❤

[@csw0551]

Yes yes yes!!!❤❤❤❤

[@TT-wb3ke]

The entire album is pure perfection. I read an interview with EJ and he thought that his voice was awful for the album. Interesting. The hard core EJ fans, me among them, revere this album, along with Tumbleweed Connection. Both are absolute masterpieces. In fact, he put out a 5 or 6 album run that is nearly unrivaled. ps...this is S Tier

[@lauraallen55]

I think it was 7 actually lol and in 4 years time.

[@sjw5797]

As Roger Daltry once commented, no one likes the way they sound.

[@Gekokujo76]

I often describe this album by saying that Tiny Dancer is a "Perfect 10" song....and it's PROBABLY the 3rd best song on the album. This is one of the most underrated albums Ive ever known.

[@jccook5353]

Tumbleweed Connection is a hidden gem of an album.

[@oldeskoolnana7543]

A masterpiece.

[@andyb7942]

If you don't hit the entire album, than *Levon* is an essential EJ listen from this. The second single released after "Tiny Dancer" from the album, and actually a much bigger success on the chart at the time. A&A, I appreciate the respect for the music you react to as demonstrated by your thoughtful comments on what you hear via just a first-time listen.

[@vincentschmitt7597]

This is Elton in the middle of an impossibly great series of albums. Each one solid from front to back. Thank god for Elton John and that he never quit during his early struggles.

[@johndixon4115]

This song gives a sense of place and story like no other from Elton. A masterful synergy of lyrics and melody. " the ground goes always down but I need more". "Are the nightmares black or on the windows painted?" Elton's melody and arrangement so capture what the song is about. A visit by family to a member suffering mental illness and "Madness". This is an S tier song to me

[@johnpbh]

Spot on... Most definitely an S tier song.

[@stevemd6488]

Several S tier songs on this album, 5 by my count, it's just that great of an album. Early Elton is masterful. My mom suffered from pretty bad mental illness, song makes me think of her.

[@lauraallen55]

@@stevemd6488 Hard agree on this album. It's so good. He was in prime form in all ways (as was Bernie) with all the albums he came out with during this '70 to 73 period. Starting with self-titled through GYBR, they did 7 (non-soundtrack albums) including Don't Shoot Me, Honky Chateau, Tumbleweed, Madman, GYBR. That's an insane amount of output of gem after gem. Sorry to hear about your mom

[@DocRock71]

That lyric is actually "the ground's a long way down but I need more".

[@johndixon4115]

@@DocRock71 you are right thank you

[@jrwskydive]

"Where to now St. Peter" on Tumbleweed Connection. A truly great performance .

[@murrayspiffy2815]

As a teenager I had a great 8-track stereo - headphones - and I would lay in my bed at night and listen to music. I had Madman Across the Water - and must have listened to it a thousand times. Still sounds good to me today - 45+ years later.

[@robmcgrath5202]

Give it up for the 8-track, an amazing invention. Better than the early cassettes (before auto-reverse) because you never had to flip the tape, it just kept playing until you pulled it out. Back in the day my 8-track collection was extensive. I wore out my copy of Boston's first album.

[@MTVessel61446]

This album is a masterpiece. I purchased this album in 1971 at age 11 believe it or not. It was my first album purchase no doubt because of Tiny Dancer. However, as I listened to it over and over again, I came to appreciate each and every song. Back in the day, albums were meant to be listened to as a suite. 45's had their place (garage, classroom) but not for the serious listener. These deeply metaphoric bluesy songs were sung with such angst it's hard to imagine any listener not being moved by them. Hat's off to Bernie Taupin for his brilliant lyrics.

[@jibteenuc9836]

Which makes you American, I guess. I was thirteen when the album came out, here in England, but I didn't get to hear it until two years later, after getting myself a Saturday Job (only me, mum and four sisters at home, so little to no spare money for such fripperies).

[@reeyam5929]

@Nancy Lloyd Same here...100% agree. This was my first album too and was always on repeat - still know every word by heart at 61.

[@cynthiawhite9830]

What an unexpected surprise! A Tuesday reaction and it it's Elton! So glad you both liked it so much. For next Elton you do, I suggest "Daniel". Also, please do "Rock On" by David Essex, 1973.

[@thetannaree]

Yessssssss Daniel!!!

[@DreamsSketcher]

Love Daniel!

[@cynthiawhite9830]

@@SelfEvident I agree. I keep asking them to do it.

[@marktait2371]

daniel woyld be good for aa few monrhs ago saw indie store dont shoot me original big price no surprise but have the classic series cd essex rock on local oldies play heard other day dont have that but but original carnival record which is pretty good also

[@susanklasinski1805]

If you ever want to check out another version of this song one day with a lot of guitar sauce, check out the bonus track from Tumbleweed Connection. Mick Ronson is amazing!

[@matthatter2849]

Oh that one IS AMAZING! Yep...totally agree with you about that version.

[@richardmather1906]

Ronson enhanced everything he played on.

[@richardmather1906]

@@lauriekittle9459 Both versions are good. I do love me some Mick Ronson, though.

[@laurateall8847]

Sitting cross-legged on the floor in my bedroom listening to this album over and over again--I was 13yrs.old and it was the first album I ever bought; not my sisters records--mine. There isn't a bad track on the entire LP.

[@davidbooth7778]

Love his early work so much. The lyrics are so powerful in early work. Doing this album A thru B is a journey worth taking.....not a bad track on it.

[@heidigrezel2596]

Agreed!

[@adrianstevens2146]

Yes! I was hoping for the full album, but at least we got this one! Surprised there wasn't a mention of the orchestral excellence.

[@billboyd9028]

This is one of those albums you want to do a full-album reaction. So many good tunes came from this album. The Elton John/Bernie Taupin combo was on fire writing and composing this album!

[@Wordsmyth8]

Great song! I saw him in the early ‘70s when I was still in high school - it might have been my first concert - in Baltimore and he opened with this song in the dark. It was amazing. The dark, the minor key, the mystery. I’ll never forget it. P.S. There were a few notes that were out of his range. No big deal. He did that a lot.

[@centuryrox]

Baltimore Civic Center, no doubt?

[@lauraallen55]

Notes out of his range in a song with this kind of atmosphere just add to it - at least in the case of this singer. Instead of sounding like straining it sounded like mood or emotion (to my ears). PS. I hate autotune generally speaking lol

[@lynnschnekenburger7270]

Saw him in July '76 - Pontiac Silverdome, Michigan ( Dave Mason was the opening act). We crossed the border, headed to the Dome, to what turned out to be 70,000 plus fans that were blown away. The energy was electric and the show was by far one of the best, if not, the best I have ever been to. ✌❤

[@brianalbee7195]

@ Lynn S. I too saw him in July ‘76. Bicentennial year, July 5, Philadelphia, PA (I lived in Lancaster, PA). Queen of England was in town for the Bicentennial. 16 years old. Only my third or fourth concert. I was blown away to say the least. Through the rest of my life it still remained one of the best concerts.

[@Scooterboi60]

What notes were out of his range? It’s an atmospheric experience and his vocal matches that both in recording and live performances.

[@jameswarkentin2798]

Such a good song. This era of Elton and Bernie was so good. Few could be considered in this same class. "Someone Saved My Life Tonight" is another example.

[@randomperson-dy6kj]

Love that song. It hits different, not in a bad way, after reading The Dark Tower series by Stephen King.

[@heidigrezel2596]

The Captain Fantastic album is one of my favorites. Can't go wrong with any of his albums from the 70's.

[@andrewhawkins6754]

Burn Down the Mission is another good Elton John cut.

[@jjmalaprop9968]

Elton John’s phrasing is impeccable. I truly don’t think anyone does it better.

[@Keith-if6zv]

Agreed, great phrasing here. I enjoy Dylan’s phrasing also. He doesn’t have the voice but his phrasing makes up for it. And of course his song writing…

[@danmayberry1185]

Good shout-out to phrasing. All the greats, from Sinatra to Harry Nilsson, were masters at it. EJ: Better Off Dead, Where To Now St. Peter .. the vocal complements each instrument.

[@Scaramousche1955]

I agree, but one guy does it better, IMO... Warren Zevon

[@abelincoln3287]

Bernie Taupin wrote Elton's songs.

[@Scaramousche1955]

@@abelincoln3287 *wrote the lyrics to

[@johndrx165]

I still have this album I got in 1972 with my first order from the Columbia Record Club! I have been going through my old albums and this is one that is still in fantastic shape. Such a classic album and my favorite by Elton.

[@joonzville]

Mine is stored in the spare room with the rest of my old albums. The grooves are almost worn away 😉. Got the CD and Now I stream it!

[@bridgetteangelos3478]

I still have it also. 😁

[@billbabcock1833]

This and Tumbleweed Connection are my favorites. And both albums are downstairs still.

[@randomperson-dy6kj]

My dad played this album over and over and over till my mom hid it from him lol! The secret it she hid it with me. Still have it. :)

[@dabigsqueezy]

Do you have the real denim one?

[@bobblethreadgill4463]

This is my favorite string arrangement. The way the cellos and violins still makes the hair on my arms stand up... Great song

[@gaycha6589]

Strings by Paul Buckmaster. Also my favorite. His catalogue and signature is impressive. My other fave LPs with Buckmaster on the baton are LLoyd Cole, don’t get weird on me Babe (stunning LP btw) and Train’s Drops of Jupiter.

[@brogarn]

I've never heard this before. That was great.

[@MrDuneedon]

What a DAMN GOOD tune this one is.

[@trblemkr1d106]

Berney Taupin and Elton John were one of the best writing duos of the day . His band was absolutely amazing. PK

[@kevinphinney932]

This is just about the apex of Elton as an early ‘70s sensitive singer/songwriter. After this album, it truly was a shock to hear him move toward pop stardom with “Honky Cat” and then “Crocodile Rock.” And if you love the Paul Buckmaster strings (he’s also all over “Nilsson Schmilsson” and the great early Carly Simon records), you need to hear “Sixty Years On” from his American debut, and the lost soundtrack hit, “Friends.”

[@RetNemmoc555]

Yes!

[@janescribner8258]

Yes! (I loved Tumbleweed Connection, too. RIP Paul Buckmaster)

[@heidigrezel2596]

60 years on-11/17/70 is one of my favorites. Great suggestion!

[@Verlopil]

@@heidigrezel2596 And Take Me to the Pilot and Burn Down the Mission. It's a great album.

[@heidigrezel2596]

@@Verlopil it's a great Live album. A few months after the legendary troubadour performances. Gives you an idea of what it was like, to have been there.

[@beverlycox9777]

This is my FAVORITE Elton John song! The arrangement is just awesome.

[@andykuhn9798]

This entire album is great.

[@cherinoelke]

I've been waiting for this one, this is honestly one of my favorite songs and albums. It gripping on first listen, but the more you listen the richer it gets. After this album, I knew Elton was a genius and I was looking forward to listening to whatever he put out, I was not disappointed.😁

[@robmcgrath5202]

Great point about looking forward to what's next. How awesome was it to grow up during this time, when we were always both enjoying the current release while awaiting what was coming next. Not just Elton but coming from all the great artists of the 70's. I guarantee that most of us can remember where we were when we heard on the radio that the new album from our favorite band just came out, usually from the first single being played. You just don't have that these days.

[@cherinoelke]

@@robmcgrath5202 You bet I remember so much about that, waiting for summer albums to drop, what I felt when I first heard certain songs. Talking to your friends for hours about it all. Funny thing is that’s what I remember the most. The rest is kinda a blur 😂

[@rickpaul4216]

Amazing song amazing album. Still in my regular vinyl rotation 50 years later.

[@heidigrezel2596]

I'm the one who requested this song. Thanks guys! It's a different one for him. You'll have to listen to the version on Tumbleweed Connection, great 🎸 solo. The 1971, BBC , live version is S tier, 10min long. Young EJ. Glad you did this one 1st. Album cover...Denim was really a big deal... 😊

[@tartanphantom]

My 2nd favorite EJ album, right behind Tumbleweed Connection. And no , the cover does not suck.. it was a product of the times. The denim embroidery cover also vaguely alludes to the the lyrics in "Tiny Dancer"-- Blue Jean Baby, L.A. Lady, seamstress for the band.

[@j.kevvideoproductions.6463]

I think It's iconic in a way of the era.

[@heidigrezel2596]

Yes.

[@adrianstevens2146]

In high school in the mid-70's, I embroidered stuff all over my jeans, even bleached the bell bottoms and put fringe on them! Wish I had saved a pair!

[@fleurdelis2976]

This is definitely one of his best. Everything about it is perfect. Elton John rules my playlist.

[@connieb4372]

FINALLY! I have been after you guys to hit this for over a year now. I've paused it so I don't know about your formal reaction but I am going out on a limb to say that I know you both are going to be BLOWN AWAY.... it is by far my favorite Elton tune... THIS represents the Elton that I grew up with and fell in love with (with Bernie's lyrics, of course)... Elton's musical composition is bar none some of the best in the business. His early stuff (such as the Elton John album, Tumbleweed Connection, Madman Across the Water, Don't Shoot Me I'm Only The Piano Player, and Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (from the end of the world to your town) are his best (I forgot to add Yellow Brick Road)... I can't wait to hear your reactions. Great channel.. all the love guys from an old lady (about to be 63), who loves good music and I get excited when young whippersnappers like you discover it for the first time! Take care and be safe.

[@adrianstevens2146]

ITA, Connie B! Nice to hear someone else mention Captain Fantastic, that album is 'WAY underrated. We're not "Better Off Dead", even if we're older (about to be 65, myself), to have grown up with such excellent music. The "young whippersnappers" here are onto something, isn't it awesome to watch them react to songs we've heard thousands of times, and imagine hearing them for the very first time? Makes me feel like I'm doing the same! A & A are the best reviewers out there because they don't freakin' stop the song to talk about it, like all the rest of those posers! So glad I found them!

[@historyguy5942]

At the time of its release this was Elton John's best album...and that's saying a lot. So many great/iconic songs.

[@allisonreed7682]

So much genius went into this song. The ebb and flow that runs throughout the song is incredible. It’s not always a gentle ebb and flow. It’s chaotic at times like you’re in a boat in rough waters trying to keep from being thrown overboard. It’s just executed brilliantly. Also check out the Tumbleweed Connection version and the live BBC version that has saucy freestyle jazz breaks!

[@Shadowrider1872]

Morning Allison!! 🌄

[@heidigrezel2596]

Absolutely!

[@allisonreed7682]

@@Shadowrider1872 Good Morning to you! 🤗

[@cherylwoodward]

Great description. Whole heartedly agree!

[@KANMyrtz]

Great description. Exactly the words I’d use to describe the feeling of this song.

[@tomknoll796]

I just think he's a genius for so many reasons. Strictly as a piano player, he's amazing. Then we add singer and performer. This particular song, however, is a great example of his incredible abilities as arranger/composer.

[@porflepopnecker4376]

This and "Tumbleweed Connection" are Elton's two finest albums.

[@michaelligue3842]

Elton John's first six albums are some of the greatest music ever made , he and Bernie Taupin were one the greatest song writing teams in music . I have to also add the fact, he has kept most of his original band members over decades . That is why his sound is so consistent. Great musicians !

[@patriciamorgan6545]

Davey Johnstone, Davey Davey Johnstone, Davey Johnstone - We love you! That was a little rhyme/lyric/ditty a good friend of mine (sadly no longer with us🕊️) made up back when we were in junior or senior high school, back in the '70s. Elton obviously was a big part of our soundtrack, thus so was (and is!) Davey Johnstone. Whenever we talked about Elton, which was often, out would come the little Johnstone ditty. It's indelibly imprinted in my mind --- and now maybe in the minds of others, lol. You're welcome!😉

[@johnmavroudis2054]

You GOTTA go "8" to include "Captain Fantastic"... which I feel is his BEST album... (but, yeah... "Caribou" is a bit weaker)

[@michaelligue3842]

@@johnmavroudis2054 You are correct I miscounted , great album . I bought it in cassette first then album , can remember exactly where I bought " let 's boogie music " .

[@michaelligue3842]

CARIBU , was a bit weaker still a couple of good cuts .

[@lauraallen55]

@@johnmavroudis2054 It's astounding how many he came out with in 4 years: 7 studio plus 2 soundtracks. '70-'73. All brilliant.

[@zebra3stripes]

I've been a huge Elton fan since I was in the first grade in the 70s. What I like is that the big hits are great (Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Rocket Man, Your Song, Bennie and the Jets) but he also has so many other songs that are just as good and maybe even better (Burn Down the Mission, Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters, Where to Now St. Peter?, All the Girls Love Alice, this one).

[@heidigrezel2596]

Well said.

[@cee8mee]

I started first grade in 1969 and Elton John is what I grew up on. Best music of our lives happened then. Burn Down the Mission is my favorite, btw

[@ericanderson8886]

Brilliant song Elton in the seventies was pure magic.

[@heidigrezel2596]

Yes.

[@robmcgrath5202]

My favorite line from the song, "Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted?". This is Elton at the top of his game and the height of his song composition.

[@TheDivayenta]

And Bernie Taupin’s!

[@John-ux8zj]

This is the next album you have to hit next from him. Fantastic album.

[@ladyshar42]

This is up there as one of my favorites, always has been. Recently though, the live version of Burn Down the Mission has come super close to supplanting it. I appreciate that song way more now than I did as a teenager

[@annk.9159]

These early works are my favorites. ‘Come Down In Time’ is another fine one from this album. This album and Tumbleweed Connection are my personal favorites. ❤

[@richardkafka5625]

I can't tell you how many times I've listened to this album start to finish just kicked back in the dark. it's a masterpiece. It doesn't get any better than old school Elton John.

[@mikepope8177]

This is my favorite Elton John song just because it's so different from most other things he has done. Thank you for giving it a listen. Hopefully some other people were able to hear it for the first time and enjoy it as well. The song is so much better than the album cover!

[@foxandscout]

Just about my favorite Elton John song. And the album is stellar. Hope you guys love it-song just started, so I’ll wait and see. The album before this, Tumbleweed Connection, has Amoreena, and Burn Down the Mission. Two more favorites. This was 1970. Madman was 1971.

[@sherryheim5504]

Just when I felt as though I had heard enough of this song, another wave grabbed and carried me back deeply into it. Elton John is a genius and his music is so unique and beautiful. This song has the ebb and flow of the ocean and I love the peace it offers.

[@keefmack]

This is a great example of how the musicians chose what they played, the engineer and producer knew how to place the instruments and the artist structuring the song and melody such that there is 'air' in the song which inflates and expands the sonic landscape.

[@joewabno3627]

Thank god we have this great music because they dont make great music no more. 70s rock

[@shawnmccorkle5059]

Actually my favorite Elton album. Andy if you like this mood, this needs a full album review. Levon, Holiday Inn, Indian Sunset (one of Bernies all time best lyrics) and the haunting Goodbye at the end. To me it's a masterwork. I play it front to back. I don't skip a thing. This is an album. And before he became the legend he is.

[@tracycampbell3060]

Elton was so huge in my childhood his music was everywhere. It's like going back on a wonderful time capsule listening to this

[@michaelknight2118]

Love this song. Thanks. All most gotta remember when this came out, long time ago. Elton understands the importance of arrangements, better than anyone. Not many rockers get to age so well. Thanks again.

[@sirfriendzone1228]

This makes me want to listen to the Live in Australia version of this song, which I have. 🙂

[@manthroat]

AWESOME version!

[@AVGuyhall]

This is in my Top 10 album list. Bernie and Elton knocked this whole album into the stratosphere. The arrangements are superb. Thanks fellas.

[@tomedmonson501]

I love everything about this record: the lyrics, the singing, the band, but especially the “lead” strings, accompanying the song, and then taking a turn as a “solo” instrument, slashing away, and setting exactly the right mood. This is S tier in my book.

[@todvball]

For me, this IS Elton & his band at the top of their game.... including Bernie on lyrics. I'm sure there's a good story behind this song... as it brings the listener through "rough seas" . The light acoustic guitar invites us in for the ride and the violins carry us....with lyrics setting the mood. Almost 'S' tier...but A+ is very much a good choice in HIS catalogue. Thanks for the reaction!!

[@jimallen8679]

This whole album is amazing. My favorite Elton album.

[@flubblert]

Gentleman, this is one of those songs that is so complex and hits so hard at first listen, it's almost impossible to fully grasp it's magnificence all at once. You'll find it gets better and better and better every time you hear it. As for vocals.. in rock as in jazz or blues, often imperfection only adds to its overall emotion feeling and perfection. Everything about this song is as good as it gets. It was not unusual for him to perform this live with a full orchestra or string section on occasion. "Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted?"

[@anthonywhetzelcreativedire5496]

So glad you guys finally hit this. Such a great song on all levels. The “Madman Across the Water” is Richard Nixon btw. Fantastic album start to finish. Definitely give songs off Tumbleweed Connection a listen. Burn Down the Mission is a killer tune, as is Come Down in Time and Son of Your Father. Incredible work. Gotta give props to Gus Dudgeon, producer on all of Elton’s 70s albums. He wrapped the songs in productions that gave them variety and uniqueness that is unparalleled. He also produced David Bowie’s “Space Oddity”. Amazing sound.

[@emilyblinder2557]

This is my favorite Elton John song. It has a haunting quality to it and brings me back to the days I first heard it when I was 17. Great song pick!

[@surlechapeau]

A&A, you'll love his "Philadelphia Freedom" and "Honky Cat"!! You should post your reaction to "Saturday Night’s Alright For Fighting" from the album review in June.

[@brigitte9999]

Philadelphia Freedom, really?🙃

[@gregv4741]

Probably in my top 5 Elton John songs. Glad you guys liked it!

[@sweetjunegirl]

I've been listening to Elton since 1971. And I will say EJ and the band really improved my young appreciation for music.

[@John_Locke_108]

A powerful song in every sense of the word. One of the best words to use to describe this masterpiece of a song and the whole dang record as well.

[@jeffhoyt5661]

Not just one of my favorite EJ songs, but one of my favorite songs period. The instrumentation and mood of the song are perfect.

[@jeffwells8740]

Tragically underrated album. The prduction is top notch. One song flows into the other, seamlessly...

[@billbitterman9487]

How is this album under rated? Not even close

[@balmpatchvideos]

Elton singing on TALKING OLD SOLDIERS also demonstrates how he used his voice so well.

[@johndixon4115]

Yes- very much so! One of my favorites

[@sandeevaughn5082]

“Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted”….such a deep line!

[@sonyaleduc2941]

The whole album is a masterpiece

[@aimeeolavarrieta6332]

Play Burn down the Mission (Tumble Weed Connection). Elton John

[@TheDivayenta]

I was in college when this came out in the early 70’s. Our minds were blown. This kind of sound was very new. So symphonic.

[@ddiamondr1]

Oh my God I’ve been waiting for somebody to react to this. Elton John’s great early work often, like this song, take you out of time and place and create their own reality. My first exposure to Elton was the album 11-17-70 as a senior in high school. He blew everyone away. Pure genius.

[@moniphil]

Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy. No, I’m not talking about Alex and Andy… …I’m talking about a song that is an Elton deep cut banger from what is arguably his best album (with the same title as the song). Yes, I think it is arguable better than GYBR. Arguably, it’s not even the best song on the album, but it experiments with fusing country, rock and pop before that was a thing. The guitar sound is so exquisite that Davey Johnston should’ve kissed the producer full on the lips. The song rises and falls captivating you each time. The brilliant melody and lyrics define the personal and artistic history of John and Taupin’s musical journey up to the point of recording.

[@paullacroix527]

Great song, great vocals and a great breakdown by you guys. Also a solid rating. Well done!! Waiting on The Caves of Altimira, Royal Scam(title track) Pretzel Logic(title track) Gaucho(title track) as well as Babylon Sisters, Glamour Profession, Haitian Divorce, Time out of Mind, Third World Man. All great Steely Dan songs. Have a good day and a great life...

[@DocRock71]

This entire album is so phenomenal, it deserves a full album reaction on Patreon. Haven't heard your ratings yet, but this song and album will always be an S Tier to me, easily.

[@evillemike2009]

This thing has given me chills for 50 years - and I've never sat down with Bernie's poetry to see if I can figure out what it means. Just a great tune, very well executed.

[@goldieschooch8512]

One of the greatest songs! Been listening to this since I was a little girl! My kinda Elton. He’s not struggling there’s tons of songs where he sounds like this! Do anything off of Tumbleweed Connection! ✌🏻☀️

[@parsleyqueen]

This might be one of my favorite EJ songs. So much passion! Bruce Hornsby did a fabulous cover you might want to listen to while Elton's version is still fresh in your head. ☮💜

[@kevinwatts661]

He worked on this song for a long time, and there are a few versions you can look for. Genius.

[@EverendeverGroup]

Some of the coolest string arrangements I've ever heard on a rock record. Incredibly conversational.

[@jdenino6022]

Paul Buckmaster did those string arrangements.

[@chrisbauder3327]

Top 5 of all Elton for me. This is my fave EJ album.

[@jprph1]

Andy is right on the album cover .. there an alternate arrangement of this song on a box set that uses heavier guitar that I like as well. One of my favorite EJ songs for sure … thanks guys!

[@laurakali6522]

Yeah that’s a good one, very rock based. Rarely played.

[@j.kevvideoproductions.6463]

I heard the alternate version with the Mick Ronson guitar for the first time yesterday. While interesting, I prefer the album/orchestrated version much more. It has more emotional depth.

[@jeffreyball2089]

THIS IZ E J BEST SONG!! the passion of his voice is unequaled

[@manthroat]

The live version on his Live in Austraila album with full orchestra is really good too

[@JohnnyTalia]

Every song on this album still plays rent-free in my head almost every day. Back in the day, it was the orchestration that always got to me. Another track from the same album, "Indian Sunset", has lots of it as well.

[@mals4125]

Indian Sunset - Just an amazing song , still so powerful,

[@vicprovost2561]

Great song off one of his best albums. Now that you heard the album original, you should hear the extended studio version with Mick Ronson from David Bowie's Spiders From Mars on lead guitar, that version is utterly legendary, well worth searching for. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎹🎶

[@GoodStuffForeverMore]

A freaking masterpiece! S tier for sure🤟 Brandi Carlile does a great live cover of this, if you ever dive into her.

[@warrendean1007]

One of the best all time album covers. He sang that with anger, the anger of a man in an asylum, that’s what your picking up on. His in laws coming to visit? The lyrics say that emotion so well. Very very in-depth song. The battle of the insane mind and the angry heart.

[@d.b.cooperskydivingschool]

I always felt that the discordant and erratic string section mirrored the inner workings of the madman. The lines are frenetic and chaotic at first like someone who can’t put their thoughts together or the mind isn’t at ease but then the strings slowly come down to a softer, lilting flow and that’s the madman coming out of his delirium, even if just for a moment. Such a brilliant, brilliant song.

[@tomcello4899]

I think the album cover is cool. This was an early 70's release when blue jeans were at their coolest. The embroidered song titles are great.

[@PK1971PK]

Yes, you've got me nostalgic now--embroidery, especially on denim was such a big thing back then. Got me to thinking back on how some people would rip the end of the leg seam and insert a triangular embroidered fabric of a different color to make their bell bottoms flair even more--both men and women. One of my favorite shirts was denim embroidered around the collar bone. Not crazy about the album cover, but it does take me back and fits the fashion sense of the era.

[@j.kevvideoproductions.6463]

@@PK1971PK if you want really dull album covers, buy the first two Eagles albums. Lol.

[@jackiewilliams4854]

Difficult to do??? Just check out live versions in the 70’s , he hits these notes with no effort .

[@Rudyda1]

He was playing a part in the song. The part of a madman. And I think he’s always had a bit of that “madman” in him which probably made it as personal a song as he ever performed in some ways. And the vocals reflected that. I know he has stated he didn’t like the way he sounded back then. But that period was when his voice, IMO, sounded raw, powerful, incredibly emotional and, along with the incredible music he composed for those lyrics, captured the depth and brilliance of Bernie’s words perfectly. “Come down In Time” is another perfect example, but in the exact opposite direction compared to the desperation he applied in “Madman.” The innocence and gentleness of his voice in “Come Down” was absolutely perfect and brought the song to its absolute perfection. That’s my take on it any way. Elton has been my musical idol since I was a teen. I learned to play piano because of him and am a songwriter myself. I don’t sing though, my co-writer, Vincent LaRussa, does the vocals. If anyone’s interested, please give a listen to a small sampling of our music. soundcloud.com/vincent-larussa-949719562/sets/vincent-larussa-sampler Thanks!

[@sammcbride2149]

One of Elton and Bernie's darkest songs. The dark, brooding madness of a madman. Superb.

[@thundrrd5]

To me this is the best Elton. I’ve loved this since first hearing it.