Elton John's 1986 album, Leather Jackets, marks a significant point in the musician's illustrious career. Released on 15 October 1986, this twentieth studio album was recorded at Sol Studios in England and Wisseloord Studios in the Netherlands, with production credits going to Gus Dudgeon. The album features a diverse range of tracks, including the titular 'Leather Jackets', 'Hoop of Fire', 'Don't Trust That Woman', and 'Go It Alone', showcasing Elton John's signature blend of style and substance.
Although Leather Jackets is often noted as one of the lowest-charting albums in Elton John's discography, it remains a fascinating addition to his oeuvre. The album's release coincided with a tumultuous period in Elton John's personal life, with the tabloid press, particularly The Sun, publishing untrue stories about him. Despite this, Elton John persevered, and the album stands as a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to his craft.
With a duration of 46 minutes, Leather Jackets is a concise yet impactful collection of songs. The tracklist, which includes 'Gypsy Heart', 'Slow Rivers', 'Heartache All Over The World', 'Angeline', 'Memory Of Love', 'Paris', and 'I Fall Apart', demonstrates Elton John's ability to craft memorable and emotionally resonant music. Released under the EMI label, Leather Jackets may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of Elton John's other works, but it retains a loyal following and is certainly worth exploring for fans of the artist.