Paul McCartney’s latest disc of moody classical compositions arrives at a turbulent time in the former Beatles life. He’s going through a nasty divorce, but the death of his late wife Linda seems to loom largest in his work. “Ecce Cor Meum” translates to “behold my heart” and McCartney does wear his heart on his sleeve throughout. In four musical pieces and one interlude, the legendary singer/songwriter moves through feelings of loss only to emerge stronger and hopeful at the end with the help, of course, of music.
The theme of music as a saving grace weaves in and out of the story songs/compositions. McCartney may not be working in his usual pop territory here but he certainly hasn’t abandoned his innate sense of melody. The darkly rousing opener “Spiritus” begins with a mournful plea to “lead us to love”. With an almost seamless blending of vocals from a choir made up of boys, men and women, this dirge is passionate stirring and rises to a dramatic crescendo.
The composition “Gratia” continues the healing arc. This is the piece where the broken-hearted begin to move away from their loss and toward something more positive. “We may find a trace / Of a state of Grace / In the saddest face” belts out the choir. If the first piece was largely mournful, this one is all about being joyously thankful for the love we have felt - even if it is no more.
The story is broken by a melancholy interlude that sets us up for “Musica” and “Ecce Cor Meum”. Both point to a love of music and that art form as the ultimate emotional expression. You would think a piece of music called “Musica” composed by the Paul McCartney would rule the album, but surprisingly, it turns out to be the weak link in what is otherwise a full-bodied collection of compositions. |