Downtown Train – Selections from the Storyteller Anthology cover

Downtown Train – Selections from the Storyteller Anthology

Rod Stewart · 1990

58 min · 12 tracks · new wave

A collection of heartfelt ballads and rock anthems that showcase Stewart's raspy vocals and emotive storytelling.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Stay With Me Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    Downtown Train — This track encapsulates Stewart's ability to blend emotional depth with melodic hooks, making it one of his signature songs that has resonated across generations.
  • →
    People Get Ready — Stewart's rendition pays homage to the classic song, showcasing his soulful interpretation while reinforcing themes of hope and unity.
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    The Killing of Georgie (Part I and II) — This narrative-driven song addresses themes of love and loss with poignant lyrics, illustrating Stewart's talent for storytelling through music.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady melodic journey throughout
  • poignant storytelling for reflection
  • soulful moments of longing
  • for evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks fast-paced excitement
  • prefers standalone singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Deep Cut — A solid anthology that showcases Stewart's catalog but isn't a primary entry point.
Themes
nostalgic storytelling· soulful resilience
Career context
By 1990, Rod Stewart was in a phase of revisiting and consolidating his extensive catalog, releasing this anthology following his successful album 'Out of Order' from 1988. This album serves as both a retrospective of his earlier hits and a bridge to his future work, capturing the essence of his storytelling style while appealing to both new and longtime fans.
Stylistic neighbors
Joe Cocker· David Bowie· Elton John

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • The Killing of Georgie (Part I and II)

    The narrative shifts from joyful memories to a tragic revelation about Georgie's fate in a moment filled with tension.

    This pivotal shift enhances the emotional weight of the story, drawing listeners into the complexities of love and societal challenges.

Tracklist

  • 1 Stay With Me Start here 4:39
  • 2 Tonight's the Night (Gonna Be Alright) 3:56
  • 3 The Killing of Georgie (Part I and II) 6:27
  • 4 Passion 5:32
  • 5 Young Turks 5:03
  • 6 Infatuation 5:14
  • 7 People Get Ready 4:54
  • 8 Forever Young 4:06
  • 9 My Heart Can't Tell You No 5:13
  • 10 I Don't Want to Talk About It (1989 version) 4:53
  • 11 This Old Heart of Mine (1989 version) 4:12
  • 12 Downtown Train 4:39

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata