Somewhere between the Beatles breaking up, Wings forming and splitting and Sir Paul making music with Michael Jackson came two solo albums, simply titled McCartney & McCartney II. Both albums have highlights and lowlights and both are historically important since this guy was a big part of the world’s biggest band. That said, each has its own personality, complete with charms and warts.

Best known for the inclusion of his classic “Maybe I’m Amazed,” this album also hosts two other fun tracks in “Junk” and “Every Night.” McCartney also plays all instruments on the album, which shows he is not only a great bass player and vocalist but he handles a drum kit with ease, making true on the rumor that Ringo was the second best drummer in the band. Aside from the aforementioned songs, the album includes a lot of lackluster moments and songs that, at times, seem rushed and perhaps unfinished.

The remastered version includes a bonus CD that features seven rare and unreleased songs and the deluxe version has a DVD on the making of the album.

Like the first solo album, this one features Paul on all instruments and vocals. Unlike the first one, this time around McCartney is taking his hand at keeping up with the musical times. McCartney II is a new wave album at times as heard with “Temporary Secretary.” The album also spawned the hit single “Coming Up.” Beyond that, however, this one leaves a lot to be desired. While “Waterfalls” and “On the Way” are good songs one has to suffer through “Bogey Music,” “Frozen Jap” and “Front Parlor.”

The bonus CD includes many alternate versions of the songs that will be a hit for Beatles enthusiasts. The deluxe version includes a DVD with live performances and the making of the album.

While neither album represents the best of Sir Paul McCartney, each has its own soul and the music is worthy of the treatment it has been given.