McCartney III
by Paul McCartney
  • Record Label: Capitol
  • Release Date: Dec 18, 2020
User Score
8.2

Universal acclaim- based on 106 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 87 out of 106
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 106
  3. Negative: 11 out of 106
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this album

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. leon1989
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    This is really brilliant album!!! In my opinion is the best album Sir Paul made since Memory Almost Full.
    Highlights :
    Long Tailed Winter Bird
    Lavatory Lil
    Slidin’
    The Kiss of Venus
    Deep Down
    Winter Bird / When Winter Comes
  2. SRV04
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    It's McCartney having fun in his quarantine, giving an excellent album with jewels like The Kiss Of Venus or Find My Way, with a very good instrumental at the beginning and coming back to the end it gives a bit of the feeling of a concept album, the best of Paul in many years.
  3. Darren101
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    Absolutely brilliant. Loved it. Really impressed by the guys talent still being there at 78. Then again, what could we expect differently from Paul McCartney.

    Standouts:

    - Pretty Boys
    - Seize The Day
    - Winter Bird/When Winter Comes
    - Find My Way
  4. camiholandag
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    I'm so grateful for his life! Thank you, Paul! I can't stop listening this album. Definitely my Christmas gift :)
  5. RaffaelRoss
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    Mccartney III nos lleva de principio a fin a ese sonido puro, orgánico y sincero, no pretende un hit o acoplarse a la moda, a pesar de ello, se escucha muy fresco, a la vez que pareciera que tus oídos solo esperaban cada canción del álbum como antiguas musas, amigas o amantes, desde la primera escucha abrazas todo el álbum, es como si el compositor hubiera desnudado su alma y te hubieraMccartney III nos lleva de principio a fin a ese sonido puro, orgánico y sincero, no pretende un hit o acoplarse a la moda, a pesar de ello, se escucha muy fresco, a la vez que pareciera que tus oídos solo esperaban cada canción del álbum como antiguas musas, amigas o amantes, desde la primera escucha abrazas todo el álbum, es como si el compositor hubiera desnudado su alma y te hubiera mostrado su corazón, percibes al músico como un ave que ya tiene una larga trayectoria, experiencia, madurez pero sin traicionarse a si mismo su música se dirige y expresa amor, aunque esta vez con conflicto y calma. Escucharlo es un gran viaje en un ave con larga cola.… Expand
  6. lipino
    Dec 18, 2020
    10
    Exactly what we needed in quarantine. I love the creativity and optimism in this album, while most other quarantine albums have been more about isolation and depression. Melodically, McCartney is still the best there is. Probably the best there has ever been, in any genre or era of music, from a melodic sense.
  7. UnusualReviewer
    Dec 19, 2020
    10
    Absolutely loved it. The songs are so charming and lovely, it's beautiful. The Kiss Of Venus, Deep Down and Slidin' are fantastic songs, it's pure McCartney.
  8. Davebo
    Dec 19, 2020
    10
    Obra maestra. Sigo a Paul McCartney desde el Pipes of peace, desde entonces he venido siguiendo de forma ceremonial, y digo ceremonial porque tiene mucho de religioso, todos los discos que sacaba año tras año y nunca encontraba lo que tenían sus discos que escuchaba en retrospectiva de sus primeros años de Wings y mucho menos de su época de los Beatles. Ha sido muchas veces frustrante, seObra maestra. Sigo a Paul McCartney desde el Pipes of peace, desde entonces he venido siguiendo de forma ceremonial, y digo ceremonial porque tiene mucho de religioso, todos los discos que sacaba año tras año y nunca encontraba lo que tenían sus discos que escuchaba en retrospectiva de sus primeros años de Wings y mucho menos de su época de los Beatles. Ha sido muchas veces frustrante, se compensaba con el descubrimiento de discos de anteriores etapas que si tenían ese toque de excelencia, sólo gemas sueltas dentro de su obra general, que muchas veces pecaba de la búsqueda rápida y mecánica del éxito de ventas, eso sabía hacerlo como nadie. Sólo en 2005 con el disco Chaos and Creation in the Backyard quedé tocado, pero este es mejor, es mejor porque lo hace todo y porque ahora sí se ha puesto el traje del que pudo ser sin discusión el mejor compositor de de los últimos sesenta años.… Expand
  9. Torb710
    Dec 20, 2020
    10
    Amazing as always Sir Paul. "NOOOOOOO HOW CAN A 78 Y/O DUDE SING NOOOOOO HE SHOULD RETIRE"

    Just shut up and listen to this album.
  10. RawFace
    Dec 20, 2020
    10
    Hacía tiempo que no me emocionaba nada musicalmente hablando, hasta que ha llegado este álbum a mis oídos. Si además añadimos en las condiciones en las que el álbum ha sido compuesto, 2020 y toda la crisis, soledad, etc, solo puedo añadir que McCartney es —como ya sabíamos— un genio.
  11. DanteLennon
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    Una obra maestra tranquila, después de este alocado año.
    Sir Paul McCartney aún no pierde el toque, y nos entrega esta joya que se siente cómo si
    nos remontáramos a 1970. Cada canción es bella y se nota el gran corazón que Paul le puso a el álbum.
  12. phoenixlove
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    And this was him just messing around in the studio??

    Amazing album, very rocky, and he plays all the instruments himself! ( apart from writing, producing, and performing himself) His voice is VERY stable, confident, and comforting on the album. I think the rest from the constant touring did him really well. THERE ARE SOME REALLY SICK GUITAR RIFFS HERE Even in spontaneity, he is a    And this was him just messing around in the studio??

    Amazing album, very rocky, and he plays all the instruments himself! ( apart from writing, producing, and performing himself)
    His voice is VERY stable, confident, and comforting on the album. I think the rest from the constant touring did him really well.
    THERE ARE SOME REALLY SICK GUITAR RIFFS HERE
    Even in spontaneity, he is a genius.

    Favouritres:
    Slidin'
    The Kiss Of Venus
    Deep Deep Feeling
    Winter BIrd/When Winter Comes
    Women and Wives
    The instrumental break in Find My Way    … Expand
  13. EduardoKalio
    Dec 22, 2020
    10
    Long Tailed Winter Bird:Another of Paul McCartney's wonderful melodies, he always makes these melodies that stick to his head,incredible.

    evaluation:8,0 Find My Way:This is an incredible song that has a feature of the Egypt Station album,which is a good thing evaluation:9,0 Pretty Boys:A very touching melody song and brings a feeling of calm so good that it's almost    Long Tailed Winter Bird:Another of Paul McCartney's wonderful melodies, he always makes these melodies that stick to his head,incredible.

    evaluation:8,0

    Find My Way:This is an incredible song that has a feature of the Egypt Station album,which is a good thing

    evaluation:9,0

    Pretty Boys:A very touching melody song and brings a feeling of calm so good that it's almost inexplicable.

    evaluation:9,5 Woman And Wives:The Most Peaceful Song I’ve Ever Heard.

    evaluation:10,0

    Lavatory Lil: This is a good rock song and very good to enjoy with friends

    evaluation:9,0

    Slidin: A song With a great instrumental and all did by Paul I can easily imagine him playing for thousands of people in a show evaluation:8,0

    Deep Deep Feeling: A song that shows the giant versatility and complexity of the music that Paul does. evaluation:9,5

    The Kiss Of Venus: The best song from an album full of incredible songs, great voice and guitar performance made by Paul,Perfect.

    evaluation:10,0

    Seize the Day: A song that arouses feelings that we didn't even know we had and is very well interpreted

    evaluation:9,0

    Deep Down: reminds me Temporary Secretary in some parts,another incredible song evaluation:9,5

    Winter Bird/When Winter Comes:
    beautiful and touching song, Imagine listening to this song with a rainy afternoon having a good coffee,perfection.

    evaluation:10,0

    [link omitted per site rules]    … Expand
  14. LILIANAPARECIDA
    Dec 22, 2020
    10
    Honestly, im in love. Paul is a gift for us and also this album! Great job, Macca!
  15. Massilanciasass
    Dec 23, 2020
    10
    Great great great! One of his best records! Very nice songs and a lot of variety... His voice is weak but very expressive... I love it!
  16. Ciccio27
    Dec 23, 2020
    10
    Best album of 2020!!! Paul is brighter than ever!!! Strong songs and great great sound! He's best record since Chaos and Creation in the Backyard!
  17. AntonioAbreu
    Dec 23, 2020
    10
    I was very surprised! I didn't thought this album would be enjoyable at all, but it turned out to be one of my favorite albums by Paul McCartney.
  18. arasulin
    May 1, 2021
    10
    Just a such great album! Escrito y producido por Paul en su totalidad, en cuarentena, es simplemente hermoso.
  19. liamskelter
    Dec 20, 2020
    9
    I find it incredible that Paul has worked on this album with so much care and dedication when he is on his way to his 79th. People who negatively criticize the album have only heard it once or incompletely. I find it simply a magnificent record. Thank you so much for this gift, Paul.
  20. TBall
    Aug 2, 2023
    9
    I don't give tens so this won't get one either but I really liked this album. I don't think it sounds so spontaneous. He worked hard on this. Well thought out, well played. Well produced. Vocals are strong. Guitar work is exceptional. Lovely basslines, of course. His best in years. Since Chaos and Creation.
  21. jarjarbinkz
    Dec 18, 2020
    9
    I enjoyed this album a lot. Lovely guitar and bass melodies throughout the album; as always with Paul's music. I had hoped for a little more experimental music though, like on McCartney 1 & 2. But it's still a pretty good album.
  22. JaimeVilBar
    Dec 26, 2020
    9
    'McCartney III' is a spontaneous gem that once again proves why Sir Paul is the greatest singer-songwriter of modern times. Unlike his last studio album 'Egypt Station' (which I also love), here Paul takes a lot of risks and goes to musical places he's never been before, and that's saying a lot.

    Standout tracks for me would be "Deep Down", "Deep Deep Feeling" (with quite modern vocals    'McCartney III' is a spontaneous gem that once again proves why Sir Paul is the greatest singer-songwriter of modern times. Unlike his last studio album 'Egypt Station' (which I also love), here Paul takes a lot of risks and goes to musical places he's never been before, and that's saying a lot.

    Standout tracks for me would be "Deep Down", "Deep Deep Feeling" (with quite modern vocals and very interesting, experimental instrumentations) and the gorgeous "Women and Wives".

    There aren't really any weak tracks (although some melodies such as "Seize The Day" may not be as inspired), and people will find in 'McCartney III' a wider range of genres than on 'McCartney' or 'McCartney II', so there is a song for each taste. Those who prefer rockers will enjoy the classic rock 'n' roll "Lavatory Lil" or the more modern sounding "Slidin'". If you're more into ballads, the acoustic-guitar led "Pretty Boys" and "Kiss of Venus" are beautiful little melodies sung with Paul's current weathered but emotional voice.

    The album opener ("Long Tailed Winter Bird") and closer ("Winter Bird" + the 1992 recording of "When Winter Comes") give the album a sense of unity and work really well in reaffirming the general feel of both experimentation and homely atmosphere.

    In conclusion, it's a fantastic McCartney album, but its less comercial approach might need various listenings to fully appreciate its interesting turns and details.    … Expand
  23. Oldtimerock
    Dec 19, 2020
    9
    McCartney III gets better and better in each subsequent listen. Each track on the album showcases the many elements of what has made Macca a staple in popular music for 6 decades. From the slightly experimental Deep Deep Feeling and Deep Down to the the more polished Seize the Day, we see many highlights. When Winter Comes comes away the best track on the LP with a Ram-ishness that is soMcCartney III gets better and better in each subsequent listen. Each track on the album showcases the many elements of what has made Macca a staple in popular music for 6 decades. From the slightly experimental Deep Deep Feeling and Deep Down to the the more polished Seize the Day, we see many highlights. When Winter Comes comes away the best track on the LP with a Ram-ishness that is so very much McCartney.… Expand
  24. Hledger
    Dec 18, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. McCartney III is not a perfect album— thought it does come close. Feeling more complete then McCartney (1970) and McCartney II (1980), the album showcases Paul’s continuing songwriting gifts. The album’s bluesy opener “Long Tailed Winter Bird” features one of Sir Paul’s best riffs in years- and while it does drag on slightly too long, it’s infectious. “Find My Way”, the album’a second track, is one that will definitively grow on you- instrumentally it is incredibly impressive, with the 78 year old proving why he is acknowledged as one of the greatest instrumentalists of all time. The song is engrossing and lyrically is most contemporary- Macca acknowledging the anxieties of the Covid Pandemic.

    The next track also is one to grow on you, Pretty Boys, centred around male models- an unusual topic for a McCartney song- contains a classic McCartney melody as his vocals, while weathered, hold up. The track is simplistic and brilliant in such simplicity. It is followed by an also simple and somewhat preachy- though still brilliant- “Women and Wives” where McCartney embraces the melancholy backed by beautiful piano instrumentation. The song’s vocals also prove to be weathered- yet such vocal style is actually better suited to the melody then a younger McCartney would’ve been. “Lavatory Lil” is one of two slightly forgettable tracks on the album- yet it actually is still quite a good song. It focuses on, frankly, a “gold digger” of sorts. In the same thematic vain of “Polythene Pam”, the catchy rocker does indeed grow on you- as McCartney is seen to be clearly enjoying himself. You of course will enjoy yourself too when you question who this might be about- the clear answer is most likely to be Heather Mills, McCartney’s ex-wife.

    The next song is the albums centrepiece in a sense- it runs for 8 minutes, which debatably is too long, and it is one of his most inventive and impressive in years; “Deep Deep Feeling”. The tempo changes, as Paul’s vocals and melodic gifts mesmerise us; it does prove a bit tiresome- specifically lyrically- but it nonetheless is an incredibly enjoyable track.

    “Slidin” shows similarities to “Rock Show” and “Helter Skelter”- and yet it is completely unique. The song is exceptionally entertaining- and Macca proves just how good he is at those rockers. “The Kiss Of Venus” is just beautiful- though completely different to “Slidin”, it is rather similar in that it proves McCartney is really good at what he does; rockers, showstoppers, and pretty acoustic melodies. This is one of the latter, and it is one of his best in recent memory; with a beautiful melody and poetic lyrics. Singing in a higher register, Macca simply impresses.

    “Seize The Day” is the next track- and thoroughly the most Beatle-like. With a guitar riff similar to Bryan May, the song’s optimism and brilliant melody really reflects Macca in many senses; or at least public perception of him.

    “Deep Down” is divisive, it isn’t a track many people are going to love, and it is tiresome to hear after 6 minutes- with no real direction to the song. Nonetheless it is actually quite a melodically impressive song, and instrumentally it is engaging. Despite this, lyrically it’s not great and it could’ve used some editing if included at all- and I have a more positive view of it then most.

    “Winter Bird/When Winter Comes” is the final track of this album- with the former being a reprise of the albums opener, and the latter a track that was written and preformed during the production of Flaming Pie. Macca’s vocals are fresher and it suits this remarkable song. Lyrically it recalls the tracks of RAM and Wild Life- similar to that of “The Heart Of The Country” and “Tomorrow”. It’s warm, optimistic and homely atmosphere, accompanied by its beautiful melody and vocals, develop a perfect ending to the album; and a truly comforting ending to a problematic year to say the least.

    Like Egypt Station, this is an incredibly diverse album- but unlike Egypt Station, when Macca tries to be inventive, he really does succeed. While not perfect, it’s a hell of an album and one that clearly showcases a master at work. Honestly, once the album ended- I was disappointed, not by the album’s quality, but by its shortness. But really, I should just be grateful.    … Expand
  25. cartshow
    Dec 18, 2020
    9
    Exceptional album. The instrumentation is out of this world, as McCartney continues to prove his prowess as a multi-instrumentalist. The overall tone of the album has a homey feel, much like McCartney I and Ram, and the songs are so diverse and experimental. The drumming stands out in the mix and initiates some sneakily heavy grooves, and the bass playing is.... well, it's McCartney.Exceptional album. The instrumentation is out of this world, as McCartney continues to prove his prowess as a multi-instrumentalist. The overall tone of the album has a homey feel, much like McCartney I and Ram, and the songs are so diverse and experimental. The drumming stands out in the mix and initiates some sneakily heavy grooves, and the bass playing is.... well, it's McCartney.

    This album has something for nearly every fan in the rock milieu. Straight ahead, driving rock on songs like "Lavatory Lil" and "Slidin" is contrasted by the psychedelic approach on songs such as "Long Tailed Winter Bird" and "Deep Deep Feeling". Other gems include "Kiss of Venus" and "Find my Way", the latter of which is likely the most radio-friendly tune, highlighted by soaring, harmonizing guitar lines.

    All in all, this album is a fantastic breath of fresh, winter air right before the holidays. At 78 years old, cherish Sir Paul McCartney and do not take him for granted.    … Expand
  26. segsi
    Dec 18, 2020
    9
    a wonderful album, which has a bit of everything and what is not boring, it is an album that pays tribute to its two previous installments
  27. junaidmuazzam9
    Dec 19, 2020
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's always a pleasure to listen to Paul.Even in this modern era He knows how to write an Album that fits well in today's scenario!… Expand
  28. TontoTontoTonto
    Dec 21, 2020
    9
    What an album OMG..

    Every song is good. And I say it again. All OF THEM are good.
    Like the lock down situation: home, love, little madness, family.

    Highlights: LTWB, Find my Way, Pretty Boys, Seize the Day, When Winter Comes

    Best: Kiss of Venus
  29. indyco
    Dec 22, 2020
    9
    I suspect most non-fans will join the ranks after a 60-year career not matter the content. But for those who have been followers, especially those who love the 'do it yourself' records like McCarthey II and The Fireman records, this is terrific stuff! The songs sometimes drag on longer than any producer would allow on a mainstream album. Yes, the voice is 78 years old. But this is someI suspect most non-fans will join the ranks after a 60-year career not matter the content. But for those who have been followers, especially those who love the 'do it yourself' records like McCarthey II and The Fireman records, this is terrific stuff! The songs sometimes drag on longer than any producer would allow on a mainstream album. Yes, the voice is 78 years old. But this is some great work. The pure musicianship and the sound mix is exquisite. Almost impossible to believe this is all one person!… Expand
  30. denizkose
    Jan 1, 2021
    9
    A balm for the soul- love the melody and the lyrics are emotional. Enjoyed all the songs on the album.
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

50
#50 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Universal acclaim - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 22 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. The Wire
    Apr 6, 2021
    80
    McCartney’s infamous whimsy tempered by his refreshed penchant for odd sonic detail (the spectral guitar tangles that trail through “Find My Way” for instance) and an aged voice whose natural erosion is more feature than fault. [Feb 2021, p.58]
  2. PopMatters
    Jan 22, 2021
    70
    McCartney III may not be the jewel in the crown of his recorded work, but it's a decent record, which proves once and for all that you cannot overlook, second guess, or write off Paul McCartney.
    Read full review
  3. Under The Radar
    Jan 8, 2021
    75
    It’s catchy, well-crafted, and creative, all while remaining honest. It may not be the groundbreaking production that McCartney has, at times, produced with valiance and majesty, but it just works.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »