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On April 4, 2025, the Waterboys released their sixteenth album, “Life, Death and Dennis Hopper.” The Waterboys formed in 1983 and have had several hits over the years, including “The Whole of the Moon.” This album was produced with Waterboys bandmates Famous James and Brother Paul.
The album features 25 songs, most of which are under two and
a half minutes long. The album is a biography of Hollywood actor Dennis Hopper.
Five of the songs are instrumental, each representing one of Hopper’s wives. The
album features guests Steve Erle, Taylor Goldsmith, Bruce Springsteen, and
Fiona Apple.
Those who are used to the usual sound of the Waterboys will
be shocked to hear this side of them. They encapsulate the American Hollywood
sound perfectly and tell Hopper’s story in a unique and creative way. Despite it
being a different sound, it showcases what the band can do and all the styles
they are able to do.
While the album tells the story of Hopper’s life, it is also
a commentary on the human experience. Most people will not be able to relate to
Hopper’s life as a Hollywood actor, but they will be able to connect with his
personal life experiences. The Waterboys were able to eloquently and expertly
frame his life in a way that allows ordinary people to connect with an actor
they may not relate to otherwise.
The songs are mastered wonderfully with the balance between the
lyrics and the instrumentals being perfect. The lyrics are clearly heard and
understood, which ensures the communication of the lyrics and Hopper’s story.
Overall, this album is an interesting spin on the Waterboys’
typical sound and style. It is interesting to see them explore new styles and sounds
beyond what people are used to. This truly showcases the band’s skill and musicianship,
though some may crave more consistency with songs similar to the ones they know
and love already. Only two of the songs on the album are labeled “Explicit.” After
40 years, the fact that the Waterboys are still trying new things and experimenting
while paying homage to Dennis Hopper is inspiring, though the album is a bit
long-winded with 25 songs.
Tracklist
1. Kansas (featuring
Steve Earle)
2. Hollywood'55
3. Live In The
Moment, Baby
4. Brooke / 1712
North Crescent Heights
5. Andy (A Guy Like
You)
6. The Tourist
(featuring Barny Fletcher)
7. Freaks On Wheels
8. Blues For Terry
Southern
9. Memories Of
Monterey
10. Riding Down To Mardi Gras
11. Hopper's On Top (Genius)
12. Transcendental Peruvian Blues
13. Michelle (Always Stay)
14. Freakout At The Mud Palace
15. Daria
16. Ten Years Gone (featuring Bruce Springsteen)
17. Letter From An Unknown Girlfriend (featuring Fiona
Apple)
18. Rock Bottom
19. I Don't Know How I Made It (featuring Taylor Goldsmith)
20. Frank (Let's Fu*k)
21. Katherine (featuring Anana Kaye)
22. Everybody Loves Dennis Hopper
23. Golf, They Say
24. Venice, California (Victoria)/The Passing Of Hopper
25. Aftermath
“Life, Death, and Dennis Hopper” is available now via Sun
Records.
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