Review
Roy Orbison's "Mystery Girl" is a dazzling posthumous release that truly captures the spirit and power of his return to the music scene in the late 1980s. As his 22nd and final studio album, it sweeps listeners up in the timeless magic only Orbison could conjure. "You Got It," crafted alongside the brilliant Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty, is my top pick—melding their songwriting genius with Orbison's legendary, commanding vocals. Add to that the intriguing "She's a Mystery to Me," penned by none other than Bono and The Edge, and you’ve got an album that is both mesmerizing and rich in musical textures.
The production is handled marvelously by Jeff Lynne, blending the classic Orbison rock and roll style with modern flair. And talk about an A-list cast! With contributors like Mike Campbell and the Heartbreakers, T Bone Burnett, and even George Harrison, each song feels like its own distinct adventure. “The Comedians,” written by Elvis Costello, and “In the Real World,” produced by Roy himself, Mike Campbell, and Barbara Orbison, reflect the album’s vibrant variety. As you get lost in tracks like "A Love So Beautiful" and "Careless Heart," you can’t help but feel Orbison's deep emotional connection in every note. "Mystery Girl" isn’t just an album; it’s a heartfelt finale that radiates Roy's brilliance and the everlasting charm he imprinted on the music world. - Sienna