Standing Stone

Paul McCartney · 1997

74 min · 19 tracks · classical · pop rock · psychedelic rock

An ambitious orchestral work that seamlessly blends classical elements with McCartney's melodic sensibility.

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Why this album works

Best for: dynamic journey with varied sections meditative moments for deep reflection orchestral warmth for cozy evenings
Context: Released in 1997, 'Standing Stone' marks Paul McCartney's exploration into classical music following his successful run with Wings and his extensive solo career. This album represented a significant artistic shift, being his first major orchestral composition, showcasing his versatility beyond pop and rock.
If you like: classical, pop rock, psychedelic rock

Standing Stone is an album by Paul McCartney, released in 1997. An ambitious orchestral work that seamlessly blends classical elements with McCartney's melodic sensibility. 'Standing Stone' was notable for its ambitious fusion of classical and popular music elements, receiving a wide range of critical attention. It premiered at The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and highlighted McCartney's ability to cross genres, further solidifying his influence in contemporary classical music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Standing Stone sound like?

An ambitious orchestral work that seamlessly blends classical elements with McCartney's melodic sensibility. Rooted in classical and pop rock.

What makes Standing Stone by Paul McCartney notable?

'Standing Stone' was notable for its ambitious fusion of classical and popular music elements, receiving a wide range of critical attention. It premiered at The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and highlighted McCartney's ability to cross genres, further solidifying his influence in contemporary classical music. Released in 1997, 'Standing Stone' marks Paul McCartney's exploration into classical music following his successful run with Wings and his extensive solo career. This album represented a significant artistic shift, being his first major orchestral composition, showcasing his versatility beyond pop and rock.

Who is Standing Stone for?

Standing Stone works well if you're into dynamic journey with varied sections, meditative moments for deep reflection and orchestral warmth for cozy evenings.

How many songs are on Standing Stone?

Standing Stone has 19 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.

Tracklist

19 tracks·74:45

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

1 Standing Stone: Ia. After Heavy Light Years: Fire/Rain (Allegro energico) 4:29
2 Standing Stone: Ib. After Heavy Light Years: Cell Growth (Semplice) Standout 8:30
3 Standing Stone: Ic. After Heavy Light Years: ‘Human’ Theme (Maestoso) 3:36
4 Standing Stone: IIa. He Awoke Startled: Meditation (Contemplativo) 3:57
5 Standing Stone: IIb. He Awoke Startled: Crystal Ship (Con moto scherzando) 2:02
6 Standing Stone: IIc. He Awoke Startled: Sea Voyage (Pulsating, with cool jazz feel) Standout 3:39
7 Standing Stone: IId. He Awoke Startled: Lost at Sea (Sognando) 4:37
8 Standing Stone: IIe. He Awoke Startled: Release (Allegro con spirito) 1:54
9 Standing Stone: IIIa. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Safe Haven/Standing Stone (Pastorale con moto) Standout 4:11
10 Standing Stone: IIIb. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Peaceful Moment (Andante tranquillo) 2:09
11 Standing Stone: IIIc. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Messenger (Energico) 3:35
12 Standing Stone: IIId. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Lament (Lamentoso) 2:26
13 Standing Stone: IIIe. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Trance (Misterioso) 5:32
14 Standing Stone: IIIf. Subtle Colours Merged Soft Contours: Eclipse (Eroico) 4:57
15 Standing Stone: IVa. Strings Pluck, Horns Blow, Drums Beat: Glory Tales (Trionfale) 2:40
16 Standing Stone: IVb. Strings Pluck, Horns Blow, Drums Beat: Fugal Celebration (L’istesso tempo. Fresco) 4:25
17 Standing Stone: IVc. Strings Pluck, Horns Blow, Drums Beat: Rustic Dance (Rustico) 2:00
18 Standing Stone: IVd. Strings Pluck, Horns Blow, Drums Beat: Love Duet (Andante intimo) 3:43
19 Standing Stone: IVe. Strings Pluck, Horns Blow, Drums Beat: Celebration (Andante) 6:15