While taking the freeway to work is relatively okay in the morning (although it can be hit or miss, depending on what time I actually get on the 25), in the afternoon it's uniformly fucked. For that reason, I've started taking what I refer to as "the back way" home, avoiding the insanity altogether. My alternate route is slower speed, fewer cars, and much less stressful than that stupid freeway. It also takes me past places like this.
And surprisingly, it only takes me about 10 minutes longer to actually get home.
Tonight I chose Elton John's Greatest Hits to accompany me on the drive, and after not hearing any classic EJ for several years now, it was quite refreshing. The songs he wrote back in the 70s—providing the soundtrack for a good portion of my adolescence (much to my parents' consternation) show that even though he's turned into a pompous, arrogant old queen of late, at one point there was some major talent burning inside Sir Elton.
Captain Fantastic remains my favorite EJ album, followed closely by Goodbye Yellow Brick Road and Don't Shoot Me, I'm Only the Piano Player.
Good stuff.
Elton recorded more memorable tunes in the 70s than nearly anyone.
And they still stand up to today's crap.
Pure entertainment and fun.
But you are so right regarding his current state….