By 1973, Paul McCartney had a bit of a point to prove, and Band on the Run was the definitive answer to anyone who doubted his post-Beatles output. Recorded in Lagos, Nigeria, under some pretty chaotic conditions – including being robbed at knifepoint – the album has a strange, resilient energy. It’s widely considered the peak of the Wings era, showcasing Paul’s incredible knack for melody and his ability to stitch together different musical ideas into one cohesive, epic journey.

The sound is classic 70s rock but with a massive sense of adventure. It’s full of multi-part suites, breezy acoustic ballads, and funky, soulful flourishes. There’s a real “handmade” feel to the production, partly because Paul ended up playing a lot of the instruments himself when band members quit right before the trip. It sounds like a summer evening – relaxed, a bit loose, but expertly crafted. It’s music that feels liberated and joyful, even when the lyrics are touching on themes of escape and freedom.

The title track “Band on the run” is a masterpiece of structure, moving through three distinct sections without ever feeling clunky. Then you’ve got “Jet”, which is just pure, high-energy power-pop, and the mellow charm of “Bluebird”. Revisit this one if you want to hear a songwriter at the top of his game, having a great time despite the odds. It’s a huge, cinematic record that reminds you exactly why Macca is a legend – it’s just pure, unadulterated musical fun.