Simple Syrup
ORG, 2021
10/10
There are few artists who exist today that are as exciting as Sunny War. A guitarist and singer-songwriter who has her finger on the pulse of all things relevant in today’s social and political climate, the Los Angeles resident is also very capable of penning an intimate, personal anthem, too.
On this outing, War focuses on precise yet loose interplay with the many musicians present, as topics like veteran PTSD, Black women artists, and even her own relationship tribulations unfold in a setting that often seems live.
“Lucid Lucy” starts the listen with just War’s distinct vocals and soothing acoustic guitar alongside Niall Taro Ferguson’s emotive cello in a very eloquent, jazz friendly climate, and “Mama’s Milk” follows with Paul Allen’s playful drums amid the fuller folk-rock setting that benefits from Matt DeMerritt’s saxophone.
Near the middle, the bare “A Love So True” recruits Aroyn Davis’ deft bass work as War’s guitar and voice emit much soul in its poetic appeal, while “Losing Hand”, the album highlight, is a sublime yet frisky display of orchestral, singer-songwriter prowess that few others could replicate. “Its Name Is Fear”, which is War solo, then showcases her powerful craft that’s wise, articulate and authentic.
Close to the end, Angelo Moore (of Fishbone fame) makes an appearance on backing vocals and theremin as tambourine and surdo from Allen help texture the cautious, folk punk anthem “Eyes”, and “Big Baby” exits the listen with the most sparse track, where War’s guitar and voice guide a careful, bluesy finish.
A true masterpiece of a record, War embraces jazz, folk, baroque, blues and some punk spirit, and her stories are more stirring, insightful and memorable than ever. Although she truly defies comparison. it’s safe to say that War possesses a vision that runs parallel to the great Tracy Chapman, which, of course, speaks volumes about her impact.
Travels well with: Birds Of Chicago- Love In Wartime; Ida Mae- Chasing Lights