Music Existence Because of Music, We Exist
Ann Wilson
URL: http://www.theannwilsonthing.com/
If Ann Wilson’s infectiously catchy, hard-rocking in Heart was built for an arena setting then her newest incarnation as a performer, The Ann Wilson Thing is meant for an intimate club setting beset by the smell of smoke and a diehard crowd of her biggest fans. The music on this newest EP is an eclectic mix of rhythm n’ blues and soul covers with only one new tune from Wilson’s own mental muse making an appearance, and while one could question the necessity of an established artist like Ann releasing a mostly covers EP, any trepidation on the listener’s part will soon evaporate once the songs kick in and take hold of the senses.
#1 leaps into action on the laurels of Buffalo Springfield’s hit song, “For What it’s Worth.” The spirit of the original is in fine form with Wilson nailing the chorus and lending her signature blustery bravado to the verse hooks. Every measure is packed with hard, bluesy guitar meat, rolling congas/bongos/tablas and earthy bass lines that anchor everything with a solid foundation. This is certainly one of Ann’s finest performances as of late and her voice has aged like a well-stored, fine wine that has lost none of its tang. “Fool No More” is Ann Wilson’s personal contribution to the EP and not only is it a mirror image match with the cover material, it’s a standout that proves Ann’s writing is as important as anybody’s in the vast musical universe. The entire thing is aflame with dirty guitar blues that whip into frenzied, electrified solos while the rhythms work the mind and the body. Wilson’s voice charges like a bull, and hits the mark in every area; her gritty, quaking croon erupting into a shout without a moment’s notice of warning. A sultry, soothing rhythm accents every guitar lick with dusky darkness and Ann’s infectiously booming voice will have you singing along at the top of your lungs. She tones things down a bit on Aretha Franklin’s “Ain’t No Way,” swaying the live audience with ambient guitar commentary that flickers like a candlelight across the deep bass guitar lines and steadfast percussive accents. Ann’s performance on this one is subdued and sublime, matching chess-piece moves with Franklin note for note with the help of a back-up vocal choir. Everything emits a radiant gospel glow that sounds rustic and modern all in the same breath. Wilson dusts off this EP with “Danger Zone” by Ray Charles. This is really a solo tour de force from Ann who plays both the piano and sings on this number. Her voice is trembling with the emotion of a seasoned 50s blues veteran that’s seen all of the action you can imagine. It’s startling how much of the classic vibe Wilson retains from Ray Charles, right down to the vinyl pop of the recording quality.
The Ann Wilson Thing will probably never match any Heart album in sales status or widespread public acceptance, but everything you love about the singer/songwriter is locked into place. She owns every inch of these cover tunes and even contributes an original piece that is in congruence with the rest of the material. Ann Wilson fans rejoice, she’s back and better than ever!
BUY CD: http://www.amazon.com/The-Ann-Wilson-Thing-EP/dp/B0142XIRAK
Rating: 9/10
David Halderman
