I actually cried the first time I heard this complete LP. Madman being the best of a masterpiece album. Even so, Tumbleweed Connection is my favorite Taupin/John release.
Tumbleweed Connection is a fantastic album, but for me Madman is slightly better, in fact my favourite E J album. Many people mention Tiny Dancer and Levon which are wonderful, but it's the lesser known songs on the record l love as much, Holiday Inn and Razor Face two such tracks.
Great stuff, and thanks for sharing. This was his earlier stuff, which in my opinion was his best work. I have to admit he lost me around 1975, and I've never gone back.
Harri, before leaving this album alone you just have to listen to 'Indian Sunset' which has another brilliant orchestral backing, tremendous lyrics and A1 delivery. Cheers ✌
From Elton's 4th album, "Madman Across the Water", from 1971, this is a dark themed song, about a lunatic ranting on visiting day at the asylum. Apparently they were influenced by Leon Russell. This was the 3rd album Elton released in the same year due to his immense popularity. Elton's vocals are so dynamic and bold in this song, with greats instruments adding to the enjoyability. The early guitar work at the beginning joined by Elton's piano skills draws you in instantly. Such a talent. Great reaction Harri. Thanks Harri and Neal. 👏👏 Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
One of his lesser known hits. It's refreshing to see someone go a little deeper than most people. Might I suggest another one. It was actually a flip side to another hit that was pushed as the single. And I still have the 45. It's 'I feel like a Bullet '; flip side to Grow some funk of your own. It actually was somewhat of a hit, it just never gets reacted to...and it's a beautiful song.
Thank you! There are artists that you could make a best of album out of their lesser known album tracks. EJ definitely qualifies as one of those artists.
“Madman Across the Water” is the story of a man presumably in a mental institution on the shores of a body of water, a man who may, or may not, really belong there. When the patient says, “Take my word, I’m a madman don’t you know,” he’s either confirming his insanity or is making a tongue-in-cheek statement. He almost feels on display when he asks, “But is it in your conscience that you’re after/Another glimpse of the madman across the water. “And the line “Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted” is one of the great Taupin lines in a career that has seen hundreds of his lyrics put to music by John, and his work recorded by Alice Cooper, Willie Nelson, Bruce Hornsby (who cut a jazzier version of this song) and others." -- American Songwriter Loved your reaction, Harri. THIS is the Elton John that drew me to him and Taupin. He made some classic albums with English producer, Gus Dudgeon, and the string arrangements were done by Paul Buckmaster. Dudgeon lacked faith in John's touring band in the studio, so studio musicians sat in for all but one song during the recording of the album "Madman Across The Water". So many only know the mid 70's pop songs that got so much radio play. These John songs are deeper and more profound than a lot of his hit people hear on the radio. Thank you again for this excellent reaction, brother!
“The ground’s a long way down but I need more”….he wants to jump to his death, but it’s not high enough from where he’s at to kill him. Hence the “ but I need more” line.
You need to 'dig deeper' into Elton's catalogue to find there is much more to hear than Rocket Man or Daniel. I've seen so many comments suggesting these well known 'hits' when there are so many other lesser known songs that are as good or better.
Your capture of the lyric being able to see clearly while being viewed as a madman is really impressive. This is the first album I ever owned and was given to me by my parents for my 12th birthday. This was the opening and title track of the album and no other artist/band has been able to replace Elton John as my #1 since. I must add, I got the same nuance you got back then. Can I also say that I was a fan of Elton John before I knew who he was. At 9 years old, I heard a song played on the radio called Lady Samantha. That was the first song I claimed as my own kind of musical identity. It wasn’t until well after Madman that I found out that Lady Samantha was an Elton John song.
One of his very best Harri. One of his best albums. I recommend Tumbleweed Connection. Maybe my favorite album of his. Try the song "Amorena" one of my favorite songs period. But there is plenty to choose from on that record: "Blue Canoe " and "Burn down the Mission" and the very peaceful "Country Comfort" the changes in the music represent the chaos in the Madmans head. At least for some of the mental illnesses I have worked with in my career. They ain't all the same.
My favorite Sir Elton John album, followed by Yellow Brick Road, then Captain Fantastic, then his earliest albums. But they are ALL brilliant! Kinda like trying to pick your favorite child. This entire album is reaction worthy, every song. For me, this album through Captain Fantastic was his peak, in an amazingly stellar 50 year musical career. He deserves the term Legend!
Absolute legend! Madman is my favourite EJ album too. As with some of his other albums it's the lesser known songs l love most, on this album l think Holiday Inn, Razor Face and Rotten Peaches are as good as any of his 'big hits' that are usually suggested by fans. Going forward a few years, who mentions Cage the Songbird from Blue Moves?, nobody! But it's another song of his that l love.
Harri, I don't see that you've reacted to Elton's "Levon" yet - that is also top notch use of orchestra in a pop/rock song and is from this same album. Hope you check it out soon. Loved your reaction/emotional connection to the meaning of the song.
Back when Elton John’s band was gold…I would love to see your reaction to another of Elton’s genius albums. And it’s his first live album…simply titled …11/17/70. 😎
I remember sitting in my friend's bedroom listening to this album, Tumbleweed Connection, Don't Shoot I'm Only the Piano Player, Honky Chateau, and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
Paul Buckmaster did this and a lot of Elton's orchestral arrangements. Man was a genius in his own right. The entire Live In Australia is a phenomnal album. I get sick of hearing Tiny Dancer anymore, but not the LIA version. Mind blowing.
PNC- I have followed Elton John ever since he emerged on the scene in the 60s. He is one of the greatest singers, pianists, and magnificent performers in the last 50 years. This was an excellent submission from one of my favorite Elton albums, "Madman Across The Water." Elton is more than worthy of additional submissions. Harri, your review was excellent.
To me, this is a bit of a transitional album. If you really dive into the "Elton John" album (not really his first, but kinda recognized as such), then you get the full effect of the orchestral arrangements of Paul BuckMASTER (emphasis mine). Check it out. You might start with Sixty Years On. Trust me, Harri, you'll love it!
HEY HARRI, HOW'S IT GOIN MAN! 😊SO THIS IS FROM ELTON AND BERNIE'S 71 ALBUM SAME TITLE, THE 2 BIG HITS ON IT ARE : TINY DANCER & LEVON, 💯 DEEP TRACL LIKE THIS : INDIAN SUNSET 😊ELTON'S SOUND IS SO BIG AND UNIQUE UNLIKE OTHER ROCK BANDS 👍 AND HIS PIANO IS ALWAYS OVER THE OTHER INSTRUMENTS OPPOSITE THE MAJORITY OF BANDS WHERE THE PIANO OR KEYS ARE IN THE BACKGROUND
The song is about a friend of one (or both) of theirs not sure who was committed to a psychiatric hospital that could be seen prominently on the other side of a bay.......Part of the lyrics are about his nature and part of the song is about those who knew him.. "come again next Thursday afternoon". visiting time etc......One of my all time favorite EJ songs
There’s another version of this From Tumbleweed Connection. It had the Late Mick Ronson on guitar. It is truly a hidden gem that not many have heard. It’s a must listen😍
Thank you for requesting this Neal. It doesn’t get much better than EJ in the 70’s. His live performance of this song with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is life changing. Thanks for the great commentary Harri. 🌺✌️
Okay Hari, now you have to start from the beginning, Tiny Dancer, then Levon, razor face, For me my first fav was tiny dancer, then Levon, but eventually Madman rose above all the rest. It’s just outside the upper limit of my range, so I don’t excel at it on karaoke night, but sometimes I just gotta go for it:(
This is early Elton John, in the early 70s, and he's a rising star, but nothing like he will become in a few short years. This is one of my favorite songs by "Reginald Dwight," I mean Elton John. Of course, Reginald Dwight, is his real name.
Elton John fan since he released Bennie and the Jets . Would like for you to do a review on the greatest legendary jazz guitar artists Wes Montgomery, you won't be disappointed once you hear his music you will be hooked ! Song recommendations : Bumpin on Sunset or A day in the life , and there are many more .
My pleasure, Cynthia -- 1970 Elton John. My older sisters had the album "Elton John" and I would listen to it in their bedroon before they came home from school. "Your Song", "Sixty Years On" and "I Need You To Turn To" are 3 songs on it that I like off the top of my head. Glad I could remember it to you.
I've been an Elton John fan for 50 years, but it has to be said that he has recorded a few clunkers! 😢 But he's recorded so many fantastic songs, he can be forgiven 😅
Nice dive at the lyrics! I think you were getting somewhere, but it's confusing, but that's what mental illness is often like, confusing. Add in people's extreme emotional projections towards one another, whoever it is in this lyric, but it mentions inlaws, but anyway, reality gets stretched. Reality stretching song, communicated so very well.
Brilliant. I remember it still when it came out when I was a little girl. Here’s a thought. Perhaps he’s dealing with toxic people. Even worse, narcissists.
In my opinion; and if you look back at an earlier album (Tumbleweed Connection), Bernie Taupin seemed to have a genuine interest in the 'wild west'; perhaps, Bernie has been subconciously writing of the Indigenous peoples of the (infamous) 'wild west'; thus my opinion lays open such a unique way of writing (Bernie Taupin) ; perhaps including the raising of 'Madman Across the Water' (Atlantic Ocean?)...just sayin';)
Four or five wonderful tracks on the album. This is one of my Least Favorite. React to Tiny Dancer, Levon, Indian Sunset, Holiday Inn, or Razor Face instead.
Wenn du mit Orchestration interessiert bist, du sollst sein Album Elton John anhoeren. "Sixty Years On", "The King Must Die" I Need You To Turn To "Have Mercy on the Criminal" and Elton John with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra the second part 🥴
The original version is on the extended Tumbleweed Connection LP. No orchestration, but instead has Mick Ronson (of David Bowie fame) wailing away on guitar. I think Elton’s vocals on that version are even better than this one, it’s well worth checking out.
This is my favorite Elton John tune, but honestly I prefer Brandi Carlile's cover. (She's a good friend of Elton's, don't you know?) Please react to her cover live Brandi Carlile - "Madman Across the Water" (NON-COMM 2018). The guitar solo and the string section (two cellos and a violin) are super.
The entire album is 24K gold!
It is an incredible album
Agreed. A personal favorite. 👈
My favourite EJ album.
It’s the best of his albums!!
Of course that is only my opinion!!
Perfect song! 👌♥️
Love 70s Elton. This whole album is classic.
I actually cried the first time I heard this complete LP. Madman being the best of a masterpiece album. Even so, Tumbleweed Connection is my favorite Taupin/John release.
I agree, Tumbleweed is their true masterpiece.
Count me in. Tumbleweed, although Madman is also special.
Tumbleweed Connection is a fantastic album, but for me Madman is slightly better, in fact my favourite E J album. Many people mention Tiny Dancer and Levon which are wonderful, but it's the lesser known songs on the record l love as much, Holiday Inn and Razor Face two such tracks.
YES with Mick Ronson! An unreal version!
Indian Sunset is also a masterpiece. As is 'Ticking' on the Caribou album...
Great stuff, and thanks for sharing. This was his earlier stuff, which in my opinion was his best work. I have to admit he lost me around 1975, and I've never gone back.
I cant believe that this is the first time these folks are hearing these great songs.
Nor can l , I've been enjoying them for most of my life! 😮
Bruce Hornsby did an unreal tribute cover of this that's just as fantastic.
Possibly my favourite Elton John song
I will just say I LIKE IT!! 😀😀
finally, Finally, FINALLY! Some one is reacting to this! I think this is my favorite E.J. song!
Love seeing this! Glad we could deliver it to you!
Harri, before leaving this album alone you just have to listen to 'Indian Sunset' which has another brilliant orchestral backing, tremendous lyrics and A1 delivery. Cheers ✌
Pick any song from this masterpiece of an album. No regrets. ✌
Hearing this again makes me miss my youth. I can't bring it back but I can't seem to let it go either.
Early Elton and Bernie were the greatest. Raw, edgy and brilliant
My fav Harri. 😊
TY @PNCombies for this gem!! 👌🏽
You're welcome -- it was my pleasure!
I wore this album out . . . .and . . . I still have it.
This is such a sad and Haunting song.
From Elton's 4th album, "Madman Across the Water", from 1971, this is a dark themed song, about a lunatic ranting on visiting day at the asylum. Apparently they were influenced by Leon Russell. This was the 3rd album Elton released in the same year due to his immense popularity.
Elton's vocals are so dynamic and bold in this song, with greats instruments adding to the enjoyability. The early guitar work at the beginning joined by Elton's piano skills draws you in instantly. Such a talent. Great reaction Harri. Thanks Harri and Neal. 👏👏 Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦
👍🌼🇩🇰🤗🇨🇦🎶🎶🎶
@agnetesorensenelbom5085 Thank you Agnete. Good Night. 🤗🤗🇨🇦❤️🇩🇰🎶🎶
You're welcome, Mary!
He was doing a very long piano solo in the middle of live versions. That's incredible. My favorite ❤
One of my favorite songs of all time. Absolutely brilliant imo.
One of his lesser known hits. It's refreshing to see someone go a little deeper than most people. Might I suggest another one. It was actually a flip side to another hit that was pushed as the single. And I still have the 45. It's 'I feel like a Bullet '; flip side to Grow some funk of your own. It actually was somewhat of a hit, it just never gets reacted to...and it's a beautiful song.
Thank you! There are artists that you could make a best of album out of their lesser known album tracks. EJ definitely qualifies as one of those artists.
“Madman Across the Water” is the story of a man presumably in a mental institution on the shores of a body of water, a man who may, or may not, really belong there. When the patient says, “Take my word, I’m a madman don’t you know,” he’s either confirming his insanity or is making a tongue-in-cheek statement. He almost feels on display when he asks, “But is it in your conscience that you’re after/Another glimpse of the madman across the water. “And the line “Is the nightmare black or are the windows painted” is one of the great Taupin lines in a career that has seen hundreds of his lyrics put to music by John, and his work recorded by Alice Cooper, Willie Nelson, Bruce Hornsby (who cut a jazzier version of this song) and others." -- American Songwriter
Loved your reaction, Harri. THIS is the Elton John that drew me to him and Taupin. He made some classic albums with English producer, Gus Dudgeon, and the string arrangements were done by Paul Buckmaster. Dudgeon lacked faith in John's touring band in the studio, so studio musicians sat in for all but one song during the recording of the album "Madman Across The Water". So many only know the mid 70's pop songs that got so much radio play. These John songs are deeper and more profound than a lot of his hit people hear on the radio. Thank you again for this excellent reaction, brother!
“The ground’s a long way down but I need more”….he wants to jump to his death, but it’s not high enough from where he’s at to kill him. Hence the “ but I need more” line.
You need to 'dig deeper' into Elton's catalogue to find there is much more to hear than Rocket Man or Daniel. I've seen so many comments suggesting these well known 'hits' when there are so many other lesser known songs that are as good or better.
Elton John was sooooo good between 1970-1975!
11.17.70 is my favourite!
Peace
Your capture of the lyric being able to see clearly while being viewed as a madman is really impressive.
This is the first album I ever owned and was given to me by my parents for my 12th birthday. This was the opening and title track of the album and no other artist/band has been able to replace Elton John as my #1 since. I must add, I got the same nuance you got back then.
Can I also say that I was a fan of Elton John before I knew who he was. At 9 years old, I heard a song played on the radio called Lady Samantha. That was the first song I claimed as my own kind of musical identity. It wasn’t until well after Madman that I found out that Lady Samantha was an Elton John song.
I wasn't a huge Elton fan until this song. I knew all of his hits which are fine but this song, and album, are next level.
For me, it's his best album, even though most will say Yellow Brick Road. One of my top 20 favorite albums of all time.
I agree with you, Doc. This is a great album.@@DocRock71
One of his very best Harri. One of his best albums. I recommend Tumbleweed Connection. Maybe my favorite album of his. Try the song "Amorena" one of my favorite songs period. But there is plenty to choose from on that record: "Blue Canoe " and "Burn down the Mission" and the very peaceful "Country Comfort" the changes in the music represent the chaos in the Madmans head. At least for some of the mental illnesses I have worked with in my career. They ain't all the same.
My favorite Sir Elton John album, followed by Yellow Brick Road, then Captain Fantastic, then his earliest albums. But they are ALL brilliant! Kinda like trying to pick your favorite child. This entire album is reaction worthy, every song. For me, this album through Captain Fantastic was his peak, in an amazingly stellar 50 year musical career. He deserves the term Legend!
Absolute legend! Madman is my favourite EJ album too. As with some of his other albums it's the lesser known songs l love most, on this album l think Holiday Inn, Razor Face and Rotten Peaches are as good as any of his 'big hits' that are usually suggested by fans. Going forward a few years, who mentions Cage the Songbird from Blue Moves?, nobody! But it's another song of his that l love.
Harri, I don't see that you've reacted to Elton's "Levon" yet - that is also top notch use of orchestra in a pop/rock song and is from this same album. Hope you check it out soon. Loved your reaction/emotional connection to the meaning of the song.
Early seventies Elton is untouchable, just one classic album after the next. Amazing backing band didn't hurt either lol.
Phenomenal, that's the word! 😅
His backing band was often instrumental (pardon the pun) in taking EJ's songs to a sublime level.
Back when Elton John’s band was gold…I would love to see your reaction to another of Elton’s genius albums. And it’s his first live album…simply titled …11/17/70. 😎
One of the best live albums by anyone!
I remember sitting in my friend's bedroom listening to this album, Tumbleweed Connection, Don't Shoot I'm Only the Piano Player, Honky Chateau, and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.
I love this song.
The GOAT songwriter of my generation! and we have many!
Classic and Genius. Bernie and Elton!!
One of my favorites by Sir Reginald.
Paul Buckmaster did this and a lot of Elton's orchestral arrangements. Man was a genius in his own right.
The entire Live In Australia is a phenomnal album. I get sick of hearing Tiny Dancer anymore, but not the LIA version. Mind blowing.
It's a thin line between crazy, and genius
❣️Thank you!
You're welcome!
There was no stopping Elton John in the early 70's. His early albums upto Captain Fantastic were phenomenal, Madman my favourite of all.
His vocal phrasing is just fabulous !
Great song! Saw them play this about 10 years ago on Quebec City. I enjoy your thoughtful takes on music
PNC- I have followed Elton John ever since he emerged on the scene in the 60s. He is one of the greatest singers, pianists, and magnificent performers in the last 50 years. This was an excellent submission from one of my favorite Elton albums, "Madman Across The Water." Elton is more than worthy of additional submissions. Harri, your review was excellent.
Thanks for the kind words, Dave!
This has always been one of my fav Elton songs along with I've Seen That Movie
You forgot the Too! 😮
💖💖💖
This side of Elton is new to me 😊🤔 Thank you Neal for the request 🤩👍 Really nice one 😇🙏 and thanks to Harri
You're welcome, Agnete. Glad to be able to turn you onto the earlier years of Elton John. My first EJ album was "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road".
@@pncombies Nice one too, only know the later songs 😊🤔
A bit of catching up to do 🎶🥰👍
czcams.com/video/6L1VfkUYSTo/video.htmlsi=nQCuIlcK6HM3QoSv
His early side is my favorite side. The first four albums are amazing.
From the same album "Indian Sunset"
My personal favorite album.🔥🎵🎶
Madman has been my favourite Elton John album for years.
Listen to it live. Oh boy 😮
To me, this is a bit of a transitional album. If you really dive into the "Elton John" album (not really his first, but kinda recognized as such), then you get the full effect of the orchestral arrangements of Paul BuckMASTER (emphasis mine). Check it out. You might start with Sixty Years On. Trust me, Harri, you'll love it!
HEY HARRI, HOW'S IT GOIN MAN! 😊SO THIS IS FROM ELTON AND BERNIE'S 71 ALBUM SAME TITLE, THE 2 BIG HITS ON IT ARE : TINY DANCER & LEVON, 💯 DEEP TRACL LIKE THIS : INDIAN SUNSET 😊ELTON'S SOUND IS SO BIG AND UNIQUE UNLIKE OTHER ROCK BANDS 👍 AND HIS PIANO IS ALWAYS OVER THE OTHER INSTRUMENTS OPPOSITE THE MAJORITY OF BANDS WHERE THE PIANO OR KEYS ARE IN THE BACKGROUND
The song is about a friend of one (or both) of theirs not sure who was committed to a psychiatric hospital that could be seen prominently on the other side of a bay.......Part of the lyrics are about his nature and part of the song is about those who knew him.. "come again next Thursday afternoon". visiting time etc......One of my all time favorite EJ songs
There’s another version of this From Tumbleweed Connection. It had the Late Mick Ronson on guitar. It is truly a hidden gem that not many have heard. It’s a must listen😍
Thank you for requesting this Neal. It doesn’t get much better than EJ in the 70’s. His live performance of this song with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is life changing. Thanks for the great commentary Harri. 🌺✌️
You're welcome, Debbie!
One of the early masterpieces.
Beautiful
Masterpiece ❤
There is a brilliant live clip of this song that really plays the piano and the drums off each other. It’s very unusual and brilliant.
Okay Hari, now you have to start from the beginning, Tiny Dancer, then Levon, razor face,
For me my first fav was tiny dancer, then Levon, but eventually Madman rose above all the rest.
It’s just outside the upper limit of my range, so I don’t excel at it on karaoke night, but sometimes I just gotta go for it:(
My favorite EJ song. So atmospheric. Definitely a "deep cut" because it would never possibly be a hit. But so apropriate for FM radio in its day.
This is early Elton John, in the early 70s, and he's a rising star, but nothing like he will become in a few short years. This is one of my favorite songs by "Reginald Dwight," I mean Elton John. Of course, Reginald Dwight, is his real name.
brandi carlile does an incredible cover version
Elton John fan since he released Bennie and the Jets . Would like for you to do a review on the greatest legendary jazz guitar artists Wes Montgomery, you won't be disappointed once you hear his music you will be hooked ! Song recommendations : Bumpin on Sunset or A day in the life , and there are many more .
This is such a great song that I almost forgot about but does Elton have any bad songs? Thanks Neal and Harri.
My pleasure, Cynthia -- 1970 Elton John. My older sisters had the album "Elton John" and I would listen to it in their bedroon before they came home from school. "Your Song", "Sixty Years On" and "I Need You To Turn To" are 3 songs on it that I like off the top of my head. Glad I could remember it to you.
@@pncombies Your Song is one of my faves. One of his first big hits I believe.
I've been an Elton John fan for 50 years, but it has to be said that he has recorded a few clunkers! 😢 But he's recorded so many fantastic songs, he can be forgiven 😅
Nice dive at the lyrics! I think you were getting somewhere, but it's confusing, but that's what mental illness is often like, confusing. Add in people's extreme emotional projections towards one another, whoever it is in this lyric, but it mentions inlaws, but anyway, reality gets stretched. Reality stretching song, communicated so very well.
Brilliant. I remember it still when it came out when I was a little girl.
Here’s a thought. Perhaps he’s dealing with toxic people. Even worse, narcissists.
This was my favorite album back in 1972 when I was 22. This and the Allman Bros Live at the Fillmore.
In my opinion; and if you look back at an earlier album (Tumbleweed Connection), Bernie Taupin seemed to have a genuine interest in the 'wild west'; perhaps, Bernie has been subconciously writing of the Indigenous peoples of the (infamous) 'wild west'; thus my opinion lays open such a unique way of writing (Bernie Taupin) ; perhaps including the raising of 'Madman Across the Water' (Atlantic Ocean?)...just sayin';)
Being he's British, I thought Mad Man Across the Water was "America" but I was wrong.
If you're looking for an Elton John song with a huge orchestral production, check out "Tonight", from the "Blue Moves" album.
Four or five wonderful tracks on the album. This is one of my Least Favorite. React to Tiny Dancer, Levon, Indian Sunset, Holiday Inn, or Razor Face instead.
Elton and Bernie picked up where the Beatles left off.........
Frey and Henley did, too!
Wenn du mit Orchestration interessiert bist, du sollst sein Album Elton John anhoeren. "Sixty Years On", "The King Must Die" I Need You To Turn To "Have Mercy on the Criminal" and Elton John with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra the second part 🥴
Please listen to Come Down in Time from Tumbleweed Connection ❤
Richard M. Nixon is the Madman Across the Water
The original version is on the extended Tumbleweed Connection LP. No orchestration, but instead has Mick Ronson (of David Bowie fame) wailing away on guitar. I think Elton’s vocals on that version are even better than this one, it’s well worth checking out.
This is my favorite Elton John tune, but honestly I prefer Brandi Carlile's cover. (She's a good friend of Elton's, don't you know?) Please react to her cover live Brandi Carlile - "Madman Across the Water" (NON-COMM 2018). The guitar solo and the string section (two cellos and a violin) are super.
Mental illness, as a man in an asylum on the other side of a secluded lake, and this man's dreams of being free one day again.
This song is supposedly about former US president Richard Nixon.
This song is about a mental institution