Full disclosure: I’m a big Pearl Jam fan, so by extension that makes me a big Eddie Vedder fan. His powerful baritone is one of rock’s treasures, from songs like “Black,” “Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town,” and “In Hiding” to his energetic and passionate live performances. I’ll never forget him coming out at the Santa Barbara Bowl (July 13, 2006) and welcoming us with “You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” before introducing opening act Sonic Youth. “Here I stand, head in hand.” Classic.
Earthling is his third solo album, but really his first, because Into the Wild was a movie soundtrack and Ukulele Songs, was…well, ukulele songs. Produced by Andrew Watt, who also plays bass, the album is straight down rock n’ roll propelled by a couple former members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers; Josh Klinghoffer (guitar, keys) and Chad Smith (drums). Glen Hansard (Once) joins the band on tour. All songwriting credits are shared by the group. Rock Royalty makes a grand presence with three special guest star appearances.
The lead-off song, “Invincible,” is a mid-tempo beauty; acoustic, electric, keys, and Vedder’s moving chorus. “Power of Right” is the hard rock statement of the album. “Long Way” sounds like the Gainesville native who left us too soon. The tribute to Tom Petty is solidified when you hear, “she took the long way, from the freeway” and see that Benmont Tench is on the Hammond organ. “Brother the Cloud” is a loud-quiet number that can’t help bringing to mind Pearl Jam. “Fallout Today” strums and “The Dark” jams. “The Haves” is a mellow ballad with acoustic guitar, piano, and strings followed by the fast, growling punk of “Good and Evil,” which would be right at home on Vitalogy.
The wailing harmonica on “Try” is indeed Stevie Wonder. This is no cameo. Likewise, with the next song, “Picture;” Elton John is not there to be a side-show. It’s a rollicking piano jam with Eddie and Elton sharing vocals. Ringo Starr is up next on “Mrs. Mills” (wait, I thought it was Ringo with the All-Star band)? With its orchestral strings and horns, it’s a nod to Magical Mystery Tour-era Beatles. “On My Way” closes the album by sounding like “My Way” at first with Vedder’s father on pre-recorded vocals in an atmospheric, eccentric song.
Earthling shows a different side of Eddie Vedder. It isn’t Pearl Jam-lite or redux. He can be himself without the 30-year+ group dynamic. The songs vary in tone and tempo: hard rock, punk, mellow acoustic, ballad, and at times swinging toward chamber pop. Serious themes are present, particularly the loss of family and friends – father, Chris Cornell, and Tom Petty. Vedder will always be earnest, but he lets his guard down here and seems to be having a good time. His wife and 13-year-old daughter sing some background vocals. Stevie, Elton, and Ringo can’t help but bring a smile to your face. It almost gets a little corny or cheesy. Sort of like the family and friends all-star jam sessions that close out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremonies. But it’s also a joy to hear him at peace and maybe not caring about what other people think as much. If he wants to have a rambunctious lounge-hall session with Elton John, go for it. This is a wonderful, unique moment in Vedder’s career. Now, it’s back to Pearl Jam and their 2022 new album and tour.
D² Rating ◼◼◼◩☐
Trivia: Vedder’s first featured vocals on record occurred on this majestic 1991 duet with Chris Cornell?
Answer: Temple of the Dog’s “Hunger Strike”