Fierce Bliss
Silver Lining, 2022
8/10
The inimitable vocalist Ann Wilson returns with an all-star cast of players and some very special guests for this rich, honest, and nostalgic set of tunes that are certainly steeped in classic rock greatness.
Wilson places “Greed” in the lead off position, where her inimitable vocals flow alongside Tom Bukovac’s swirling guitar and Sean T Lane’s agile drumming, as both grit and melody illuminate the sturdy rocker, and “Black Wing” follows with Dan Walker’s atmospheric keys adding much beauty to the cautious landscape.
In the middle, Queen’s “Love Of My Life” brings in Vince Gill on vocals for the powerful and emotive interpretation, while “Gladiator” recruits Warren Haynes on guitar and Jorgen Carlsson on bass for the prog-friendly display of diverse talent.
“A Moment In Heaven”, perhaps the best tune present, then thumps with a loud and very energetic appeal that showcases Wilson’s incredible pipes, and “As The World Turns” exits the listen with sublime intimacy and a poetic quality that builds into a dense and exciting finish.
Wilson, of course, has achieved incredible success with Heart, and though her solo work at this point has been largely covers, the originals here hint at, hopefully anyway, a more prolific future for the legend.
Travels well with: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band- Straight To You Live; Beth Hart- A Tribute To Led Zeppelin