Leather Jackets isn't just underrated—it's actually a good album!
Elton has called "Heartache All Over the World" his worst song. So, out of curiosity, I gave it a listen, and I have to say that large parts of the album feature some really good melodies. Of course, it doesn't compare to “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road”, but it is by no means a bad album. People who enjoy Elton's ballads or breakup songs, in particular, should give “Leather Jackets” a chance. There is some valid criticism: cheesy '80s synthesizers, Elton's voice isn't in top form, and—in my opinion—there are three boring tracks (Leather Jackets, Go It Alone, and Angeline). However, the rest of the album is consistently Elton at his best; Hoop of Fire, Gypsy Heart, and Paris stand out to me in particular. So definitely give “Leather Jackets” a listen—it is most certainly not a second Victim of Love!