By Chase L. Manson ’16
THE ROUNDUP

“Rumors” by Fleetwood Mac

9.5 out of 10

The music business is a cruel industry, where many experience true betrayal and personal relationships go off the rails.

There are many music feuds that have lasted decades and careers.

For example: British band Fleetwood Mac. This band has experienced horrible personal relationship drama such as divorce within the group.

Much of this drama hinged upon their 11th studio album, “Rumors.”

“Rumors” main theme deals with relationship trouble and received critical acclaim, winning the group a Grammy.

The album was a worldwide hit with singles such as  “Go Your Own Way,” “Dreams,” “Don’t Stop” and “You Make Loving Fun.”

All of these songs have become staples of the band and still hold up today.

“Go Your Own Way” is by far the weakest of the singles as it has been overplayed. However, the composition is still brilliant, as are the lyrics.

All of the songs on the album are heartfelt and intentional. They have depth and meaning, something very rare today.

This depth is exemplified in “The Chain,” the best song off the album.

“The Chain” talks about everything the band has been through in the process of the album trust, distrust, struggle and love.

It is so complex and intricate that it just resonates with listener. It is also interesting to note that this song is a duet with Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks, who were ex-lovers.

This song shows maturity as we hear the band coming together as one to solve their issues. The song is the only one to be written by everyone in the band, which really creates pure and raw emotion.

The only song I am not the biggest fan of is “Songbird.” It is a little fluffy and not to my personal taste.

In the end, “Rumors” is a true work of raw and emotive talent.

Check out this album at a vinyl store, buy it on iTunes or listen to it for free on Spotify and relive a time of strife for Fleetwood Mac.