Album Information Section

Album Title: Flashpoint

Artist: The Rolling Stones

Original Release Date: April 2, 1991

Label: Unknown Label

Genres: Rock, Blues Rock

Track Listing:

• 1. (Intro) Continental Drift (0:26)
• 2. Start Me Up (3:55)
• 3. Sad Sad Sad (3:33)
• 4. Miss You (5:56)
• 5. Rock and a Hard Place (4:52)
• 6. Ruby Tuesday (3:34)
• 7. You Can’t Always Get What You Want (7:26)
• 8. Factory Girl (2:48)
• 9. Can’t Be Seen (4:18)
• 10. Little Red Rooster (5:16)
• 11. Paint It Black (4:03)
• 12. Sympathy for the Devil (5:35)
• 13. Brown Sugar (4:07)
• 14. Jumpin’ Jack Flash (5:00)
• 15. (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction (6:09)
• 16. Highwire (4:46)
• 17. Sex Drive (5:07)

Recording Information

The album “Flashpoint” was recorded primarily at Olympic Studios in London, a location that has been pivotal for many significant rock albums since the 1960s. The recording sessions took place between 1989 and 1990, capturing the essence of The Rolling Stones’ live performances during this period. The album was produced by the band along with producer Chris Kimsey, who had a longstanding relationship with the group, having worked on several of their earlier albums.

Notable recording techniques included the use of multi-track recording, which allowed for a rich layering of instruments and vocals. The Stones also incorporated elements of live performance into the recording process, creating a raw and energetic sound. This approach is evident in tracks such as “Start Me Up” and “Jumpin’ Jack Flash,” which maintain the spontaneity of a live show while benefiting from studio precision. An interesting production note is that the album features live recordings from their 1989-1990 “Steel Wheels” tour, which was their first tour in nearly seven years, marking a significant return to the stage.

Band Context

By the early 1990s, The Rolling Stones were navigating a period of reinvention and resurgence. After a hiatus, the band reunited for the “Steel Wheels” tour, which not only reestablished their presence in the music industry but also marked a new chapter in their storied career. The lineup during this time consisted of Mick Jagger (vocals), Keith Richards (guitar, vocals), Charlie Watts (drums), and Ronnie Wood (guitar), with the addition of bassist Darryl Jones, who had joined the band as a touring member.

Prior to the release of “Flashpoint,” the band had faced various challenges, including personal and professional strife, but the success of the “Steel Wheels” tour revitalized their dynamic. The album served as a culmination of this renewed energy and showcased their ability to blend classic hits with newer material. The Rolling Stones were also beginning to embrace the changing musical landscape of the early ’90s, incorporating elements of contemporary rock while staying true to their roots.

Track Commentary

“Flashpoint” features a compelling mix of classic hits and new tracks that reflect the band’s enduring appeal and adaptability. The album opens with the brief yet atmospheric “(Intro) Continental Drift,” which sets a world music tone, transitioning seamlessly into the iconic “Start Me Up.” This track, with its infectious riff and anthemic chorus, became one of the band’s defining songs of the late ’80s and early ’90s, solidifying their rock legacy.

Other standout tracks include “Miss You,” which showcases a blend of rock and disco influences, and “Ruby Tuesday,” a poignant ballad that demonstrates the band’s softer side. The inclusion of “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” and “Sympathy for the Devil” connects the album to the band’s rich history, while tracks like “Highwire” and “Sex Drive” reflect their contemporary sound and lyrical themes of rebellion and desire.

The critical reception of “Flashpoint” was generally positive, with many reviewers praising its energetic performances and the seamless integration of classic and new material. While it may not be considered a landmark album in their discography, it serves as a testament to The Rolling Stones’ ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing musical landscape. The live recordings captured the essence of their performances, offering fans a glimpse into the band’s enduring spirit and connection to their audience.