Music icon Sir Paul McCartney released his 16th studio album New on Friday, Oct. 11, rocketing to the third slot in the Billboard 200 and claiming new musical territory. His latest creation, a mutation of 21st century beats and a classic “Mecca” sound was constructed with the help of four producers including Ethan Johns, Paul Epworth, Giles Martin, and Mark Ronson. The collaborators provided the album with versatility, ranging from catchy tunes such as “Queenie Eye” to a fast paced, modern “Appreciate” and folksy rock ballads, such as “Early Days” and “Get Me Out of Here”. In the first couple of tracks, McCartney embarks a journey into a more contemporary sound, with upbeat hints of rock and pop. As the tracks progress, there is a sudden shift. The tunes slowly begin to focus on instrumentals and his signature vocals, providing a classic rock n’ roll vibe. The former Beatle doesn’t concentrate solely on the depth of lyrics, but on the actual experience for his listeners. Like his previous works, New is lighthearted and fun, but does in fact contain subtle layers of meaning. One of the most influential factors on McCartney’s album is his infatuation for wife of two years, Nancy Shevell. The album is drenched in passionate and lovey dovey lyrics, and the last track, “Scared” brings it to a romantic halt.  The musical genius reveals his emotions through his lyrics: “I’m scared to say I love you/ Afraid to let you know/ That the simplest of words won’t come out of my mouth/ Though I’m dying to let them go” leaving listeners with a satisfying end to an expertly constructed album. The seventy-one-year-old concocted a work of musical art that can be described in three words—pure musical gold.