Wow, The Stranger is truly an incredible journey. Billy Joel's warm and soulful voice takes center stage, guiding us through a collection of insightful, relevant, and deeply relatable lyrics. Each song is more than just music; it's a reflection of the human experience, carefully crafted to resonate with listeners. Tracks like "Scenes from an Italian Restaurant" and "Everybody Has a Dream" showcase Joel's mastery in songwriting, with unique structures that keep you hooked from start to finish.
What stands out most is the complexity and beauty of the arrangements. Joel layers instruments in such a way that each moment feels intentional and perfectly placed. The inclusion of diverse instruments—like the accordion, saxophone, and organ—adds depth and texture, each one entering at just the right moment to elevate the song to another level. Even though the album stretches over 40 minutes, it never feels long. The pacing is spot on, and it flows so effortlessly that before you know it, the album comes full circle, ending with the subtle yet powerful reprise of his whistling from an earlier track.
It’s clear that The Stranger was made with immense care and attention to detail, a labor of love from an artist who poured himself into every note. The recognition and accolades Billy Joel has received throughout his career are entirely justified, and this album alone shows why he’s regarded as one of the greats. For many, The Stranger might even be his best work—and it’s easy to see why. Did I leave anything out? Probably. But one thing’s for sure: the hype surrounding this album is absolutely real.
RATING: 9.5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Just The Way You Are
Vienna
Only The Good Die Young
Everybody Has A Dream