For a few years now, living legend Ringo Starr has been releasing a series of EPs that mix originals and covers, all with the All-Starr’s considerable charm & talent. They’ve been more toe-dips than full-on plunges, a wave of the peace sign from who may or may not be the best Beatle, but is undoubtedly the most likable (as was proved in 2021 Get Back documentary). After collaborating with Linda Perry for a few songs on those EPs, he lets her take the writing & producing reigns for Crooked Boy EP.
Despite being written & produced by another, Crooked Boy might be the EP that feels most Ringo-esque, from the cover photo of a young Ringo (you can see why Marge Simpson loved him) onwards. Opener “February Sky” is a throwback to old school classic rock, while the rest – “Adeline”, “Gonna Need Someone”, and the title track – let Starr’s ‘up with people’ cheer shine through.
Like Ringo Starr’s prior 2020s EPs, Crooked Boy is not going to Change the World (QRO review), but is a very nice reminder of perhaps the nicest greatest musician in the world.
