Son of a Plumber cover

Son of a Plumber

Per Gessle

Album 2005

About this album

Sound: "A whimsical blend of playful pop melodies and introspective lyrics wrapped in a nostalgic warmth."

Where they were

Released on November 23, 2005, 'Son of a Plumber' marked Per Gessle's first solo album after his successful career with Roxette. At this point, Gessle was exploring a more personal sound, distinct from the commercial pop hits that defined his previous work. This album allowed him to showcase his songwriting prowess and creativity outside of the duo's mainstream appeal.

Why it matters

'Son of a Plumber' received critical acclaim for its clever lyrics and catchy tunes, showcasing Gessle's unique storytelling ability. The album reached number one on the Swedish charts and solidified his standing as a solo artist, influencing the Swedish pop landscape in the mid-2000s.

Essential tracks

  • "Drowning in Wonderful Thoughts About Her" — This track encapsulates the album's playful yet reflective tone, blending catchy melodies with heartfelt lyrics about love and longing.
  • "I Have a Party in My Head (I Hope It Never Ends)" — With its upbeat rhythm and carefree lyrics, this song perfectly represents Gessle's knack for crafting infectious pop anthems.
  • "I Never Quite Got Over the Fact That the Beatles Broke Up" — This track is a poignant homage to Gessle's musical influences, weaving nostalgia into a narrative that resonates with many fans of classic rock.
  • "Something Happened Today" — The emotional depth in this song highlights Gessle's ability to convey personal experiences through universal themes, making it a standout moment on the album.

Release Date

November 23, 2005

Artist Origin

Sweden

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Drowning in Wonderful Thoughts About Her 2:46
  2. 2 Jo‐Anna Says 3:23
  3. 3 I Have a Party in My Head (I Hope It Never Ends) 2:06
  4. 4 C’Mon 2:58
  5. 5 Week With Four Thursdays 2:10
  6. 6 Hey Mr. DJ (Won’t You Play Another Love Song) 3:43
  7. 7 Late, Later On 3:53
  8. 8 Ronnie Lane 1:04
  9. 9 Are You an Old Hippie, Sir? 1:42
  10. 10 Double‐Headed Elvis 1:22
  11. 11 Something in the System 1:31
  12. 12 Speed Boat to Cuba 1:47
  13. 13 Come Back Tomorrow (and We Do It Again) 2:08

Disc 2

  1. 1 Kurt - The Fastest Plumber in the West 1:37
  2. 2 I Never Quite Got Over the Fact That the Beatles Broke Up 4:09
  3. 3 Substitute (for the Real Deal) 3:08
  4. 4 Waltz for Woody 1:03
  5. 5 Carousel 2:28
  6. 6 I Like It Like That 3:34
  7. 7 Something Happened Today 2:46
  8. 8 Brilliant Career 2:29
  9. 9 Burned Out Heart 3:42
  10. 10 Drowning in Wonderful Thoughts About Her (reprise) 0:57
  11. 11 Making Love or Expecting Rain 4:59
  12. 12 Jo‐Anna Says (reprise) 10:45