All the Plans (song)

Production

Starsailor asked Ronnie Wood to play guitar on the record, but he was initially unavailable due to promoting the film Shine A Light. After a couple of months, James Walsh received an early morning call confirming Wood could play. Later, Wood's son Jesse called Walsh around half-past six one evening, saying his father wanted to do it and asking Walsh to be at the studio by nine o'clock. Wood played guitar and remarked that the song reminded him of "Maggie May."

Reception

The single attracted media attention before the album's release because of Ronnie Wood's involvement. Critics gave positive reviews: Dave Simpson of The Guardian noted that writing about lost loves and lessons learned gave James Walsh drive and focus, and that Wood's guest guitar was unlikely but perfectly suited Faces-style. Ok! Magazine called "All the Plans" their favourite track on the album, describing it as "a fine return" and including it among the band's best work alongside "Tell Me It’s Not Over" and "Listen Up." Alex Lai of Contactmusic.com called it a surprisingly enjoyable indie anthem that would sweep up festival crowds. On 8 June 2009, Altsounds.com praised the soft-focus Hammond organ, delicate percussion, and sparse over-driven guitars courtesy of Ronnie Wood, adding that its heady Americana vibe was infectious and that frontman James Walsh had impressive vocal pipes.

Did You Know?

• The music video was filmed live on 15 October 2008 during a gig at the Hard Rock Cafe in London.
• The video was uploaded to Starsailor's YouTube channel on 19 June 2009.
• Pete Greenwood played additional guitars in the live performance shown in the music video.