Elton John retired from touring in 2023, and last year, he experienced a serious health scare involving his vision. But for an artist with his work ethic and drive, slowing down was never really an option.

Spring may have sprung, but there’s little in life to truly raise the sprits, so this week’s release of Who Believes in Angels? the much-anticipated album from Elton John and Brandi Carlile is especially welcome.

Elton John and country star Brandi Carlile collaborated on “Never Too Late,” the title track from the 2024 documentary film “Elton John: Never Too Late.”