Rock-Pop Review: Ann Wilson-The Ann Wilson Thing! - #1

Release Date: October 9, 2015

Label: Rounder

Website

A Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Ann Wilson is well known for her stellar voice and textured songs, primarily from her time with Heart. This year a much awaited solo EP has hit the shelves with a mix of original and cover songs. Focusing on blues and rock, she brings back to life many timeless classics and adds one of her own.

“Fool No More” is the original piece on the album. Electric guitar riffs are met with percussive kisses and sweltering vocals that make you long for a tall glass of ice water. Raw and twisting, the emotive lyrics stir the soul with images of dreams and empty hours spent in leisure and aimless pursuits. The guitar growls, twisting and flicking like the tail on a cat, pensive and full of beautiful menace.

Ray Charles would have been proud to hear Wilson’s rendition of his song “The Danger Zone.” A muzzy bit of vocalization winds around the listener, with breathless anticipation. A light blues feel with keyboard antics and a back bayou sense of rhythm, this piece has a tinny effect that warbles with each utterance.

“For What It’s Worth” is a jovial piece with vibrant drums and hip twisting action. A cover for the Buffalo Springfield classic, this song is hopping. Wilson rips through the lyrics and raises them back up to dizzying heights, embracing the essence of the time the song was written. Textured guitar playing licks over you and there is just no way to sit still while you absorb the magic.

“Ain’t No Way” is a resurrection of Aretha Franklin’s song. Earthy and full of the frustrations of life, the piece is blended with multi-instrumentation and Wilson’s stellar vocals. Reaching deep or skimming the surface, she makes the song her own, belting out the heartfelt emotions of women everywhere as they negotiate matters of the heart with the men in their lives. At times sharp, and often poignant the song is one of my favorites on the album.

From being part of Heart to her new solo EP, Wilson sings with purpose and conviction, laying claim to the songs she covers and even creating a new classic piece of her own with “Fool No More.” This EP is a must for any fan of Heart, The Pretenders, Elle King, Joan Jett or Blondie. Some voices just stick with you and Ann Wilson-she’s got it. Great EP and I can’t wait to hear what’s next.

5/5 Stars

Tracks: 
1. For What It’s Worth
2. Fool No More
3. Ain’t No Way
4. Danger Zone

Key Tracks: Fool No More, Danger Zone, Ain’t No Way, For What It’s Worth

Dana Wright, Sr. Staff Writer

October 27, 2015

Review Provided By Write A Music Review