Album: Ram

Introduction
"Ram" is the second studio album by British musician Paul McCartney, released on May 17, 1971, by Apple Records, the record label established by The Beatles. The album is credited to both Paul and his spouse, Linda McCartney, although her participation was limited to offering support vocals. The album was taped in the middle of McCartney's legal battle with his previous bandmates in The Beatles over the dissolution of their partnership, and it showcases a more raw and speculative side of his songwriting compared to his debut solo album, "McCartney" (1970).

Background and Recording
Following the break up of The Beatles, Paul McCartney aspired to release brand-new music and defy expectations put on him as one of the renowned band's crucial members. Throughout late 1970 and early 1971, McCartney and Linda set off to deal with the brand-new task away from the public eye. They first hung out on their Scottish farm prior to heading to New York City to collaborate with session musicians at CBS Studios.

The recording sessions for "Ram" were marked by experimentation and spontaneity. This imaginative technique frequently involved McCartney improvising lyrics and tunes, and then asking the musicians to add their touches to the tunes. This process led to varied and uniquely diverse sounds throughout the album, moving away from The Beatles' extremely sleek arrangements.

Music and Lyrics
"Ram" includes a variety of musical designs, including pop, rock, folk, psychedelia, and even some aspects of progressive rock. While still preserving McCartney's natural gift for appealing tunes, the album's structures frequently display more intricate and unexpected structures compared to his previous work.

Lyrically, "Ram" typically showcases a funny bone and whimsy in songs like "Eat at Home" and "Monkberry Moon Delight". Nevertheless, there are also moments of self-questioning and vulnerability, such as in "Dear Boy" and the album's closer, "Back Seat of My Car". Especially, the album features a number of thinly-veiled jabs at McCartney's previous bandmates, particularly in tracks like "Too Many People" and "3 Legs", which drew in criticism and fueled further displeasure between McCartney and The Beatles.

Release and Reception
Upon its release in 1971, "Ram" initially got blended evaluations from critics, with some praising its ingenious experimentation, while others discovered it indulgent and unfocused. The album was branded as uneven and lightweight by numerous, and McCartney faced allegations of being unable to develop significant music without his former bandmates.

However, despite the less-than-warm preliminary reception, "Ram" achieved significant industrial success, peaking at No. 1 on the UK Albums Chart, and No. 2 on the US Billboard chart. The album generated one hit single, "Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey", which reached No. 1 in the United States.

Legacy and Retrospective Reviews
In the years since its release, "Ram" has actually seen a considerable reevaluation, with critics and fans alike acknowledging its appeal and influence as an influential recordings in both Paul McCartney's profession and the more comprehensive scope of popular music.

Many artists, including Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys and Elvis Costello, have mentioned "Ram" as a key influence in their work, applauding its innovative songwriting, abundant harmonies, and mix of categories. Recently, the album has been reissued with bonus offer tracks and remastered sound, reinforcing its status as a traditional and vital entry in McCartney's discography.