Anarchist Gospel
New West, 2023
9/10
The Nashville singer-songwriter and guitarist Sunny War never does anything conventional, and on this aptly titled 4th album she welcomes some excellent musicians and guest spots from names we all know, too.
“Love’s Death Bed” opens the listen with agile drumming, spirited harmonica and plenty of R&B flavor that’s soulful and not lacking grooves, and “No Reason” follows with a swift, thumping folk-rock appeal that’s full of expressive singing and meticulous acoustic guitar.
Further along, the bluesy nods of “Swear To Gawd” make a strong impression amid Chris Pierce’s flowing harmonica and fluent melodies, while “New Day” highlights War’s poetic and intimate voice that’s got a hint of grit in its stirring delivery that spotlights Dennis Crouch’s precise upright bass.
Approaching the end, “Higher” emits a distinct dreaminess that comes with a dense backdrop that’s slightly ominous alongside Jo Schornikow’s mellotron, and “Whole” exits the listen with Maureen Murphy, Nickie Conley and Kyshona Armstrong’s charming backing vocals and John James Tourville’s swirling guitar making for a gorgeous, captivating finish.
An artist who possesses a punk spirit, but is quite sophisticated in her inimitable formula that's touches on folk, blues, Americana and rock, there truly is no bad place to start for the first time listener, but you may as well get acquainted here, cause it’s some of Sunny War’s best so far.
Travels well with: H.C. McEntire- Every Acre; The Bad Ends- The Power And The Glory