Elton John

UK first press 1973. Record and sleeve EX.
One of Elton’s most charming records. This is the album where the hooks get brighter, the strings get lusher, and the ballads go full cinematic. “Daniel” and “Crocodile Rock” are the obvious hits, but the deep cuts are packed with theatrical flair and pop instincts that never feel forced. Less glam than what came before, more radio-ready without losing the weird. FFO: early Billy Joel, Wings at their most polished, Nilsson with a bigger budget, piano pop with sparkly boots