Above the Ground cover

Above the Ground

Burton Cummings · 2008

74 min · 20 tracks · pop music

A reflective blend of soft rock and pop, layered with introspective lyrics and Burton Cummings' rich, emotive vocals.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Crazy If You Mess With the Gods — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its bold declaration of individuality, featuring catchy hooks and a driving rhythm that showcases Cummings' vocal prowess.
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    Any Minor Miracle — This song reflects on the small wonders of life, combining poignant lyrics with an uplifting melody that encapsulates the album's overall theme of hopefulness.
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    Kurt's Song — A standout tribute piece, this track highlights Cummings' storytelling ability while addressing themes of loss and remembrance, resonating deeply within the context of the album.
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    Above the Ground — The title track offers introspective lyrics paired with a reflective melody, embodying Cummings' journey and growth as an artist over the years.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective moments of introspection
  • dynamic journey with varied pacing
  • thoughtful storytelling across tracks
  • for evening relaxation
  • soulful vocals inviting contemplation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy dance tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2008, Above the Ground marked Burton Cummings' first album of new material in over a decade, showcasing his enduring artistry after his initial rise to fame with The Guess Who. This album came during a phase of resurgence for Cummings, as he sought to reconnect with both longtime fans and new listeners.
Stylistic neighbors
Gordon Lightfoot· Jim Croce· Harry Chapin

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Kurt's Song

    The moment shifts from nostalgic reminiscence to a heartfelt acknowledgment of loss, creating a powerful emotional impact without directly naming the subject.

    The lyrical progression moves from fond memories to an acceptance of grief, enhancing the song's depth through its nuanced shift in tone.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Crazy If You Mess With the Gods 3:50
  • 2 Junior Won't Behave 3:37
  • 3 TPOS 3:30
  • 4 Any Minor Miracle 4:09
  • 5 Powers at Play 4:42
  • 6 Ponderlust 4:49
  • 7 Rollaway 1:41
  • 8 We Just Came From the U.S.A. 3:36
  • 9 Pretty Pictures 3:39
  • 10 Look Out Charlie (There's a New Bartender in Town) 3:14
  • 11 Kurt's Song 4:45
  • 12 Richard 4:59
  • 13 Dream 3:45
  • 14 Up in the Canyon 3:09
  • 15 A Touch of Morning 3:49
  • 16 Revelation 4:24
  • 17 Invisible 3:31
  • 18 Retribution 5:24
  • 19 Above the Ground 4:18

Disc 2

  • 1 Behind-the-Scenes View of Creating the Album

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata