New Sequel by Paul Kelly Pays Tribute to Joe in Touching Letter from Rita

0

Paul Kelly recently released a sequel to his beloved 1996 single “How to Make Gravy,” titled “Rita Wrote a Letter,” in which he explores the fate of his characters after almost 30 years. In this new song, Kelly portrays Joe and Rita, with Rita taking a stand and moving on from Joe’s imprisonment. The affectionate yet bittersweet goodbye to Joe showcases Kelly’s talent for capturing the essence of the underdog, filled with missed chances and bad timing that resonates with his audience. The sequel follows Joe’s perspective, showcasing his struggles upon release from jail and his encounter with a job as a dish pig, shedding light on the old feelings that still linger within him despite his newfound employment.

The music of “Rita Wrote a Letter” is filled with nostalgic elements and clever musical references to its predecessor. With a 50s rhythm and blues piano line, the song maintains a connection to the original while offering a fresh perspective. Kelly describes this piece as a “black comedy,” with an upbeat tempo reminiscent of his past work, reflecting his signature style. The video accompanying the song features a St Kilda home setting, with Justine Clarke portraying Rita with a sense of resigned acceptance towards Joe’s haunting presence. The lyrics delve into the themes of selfishness and addiction, echoing Kelly’s previous works, with a tragic twist culminating in Joe’s demise at the end of the song.

“Rita Wrote a Letter” serves as a teaser for Kelly’s upcoming album, Seventy, set for release in November. This new LP promises to explore themes of reflection and continuity, celebrating the journey of life and creativity. Despite Joe’s character meeting his end in the sequel, Kelly’s musical spirit shines brighter than ever, hinting at a profound and introspective album to come. The artwork for Seventy features a current photograph of Kelly juxtaposed with a portrait from his past, symbolizing the passage of time and the evolution of his music throughout the years.

In conclusion, “Rita Wrote a Letter” is a poignant continuation of Kelly’s storytelling prowess, offering fans a glimpse into the lives of his beloved characters. With a blend of nostalgia, humor, and reflection, the song sets the stage for a thought-provoking album release that promises to resonate with listeners in new and unexpected ways. Kelly’s ability to craft compelling narratives through music remains as strong as ever, ensuring that his music continues to captivate audiences for years to come.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Prove your humanity: 8   +   1   =