Music Review: Heart — ‘Beautiful Broken’
There are probably a lot of us out there who wish we could have a do-over or two from the ’80s. On HeartĢƵ 16th album, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame members get a second shot at recording a handful of tracks previously released on 1980ĢƵ “Bebe le Strange,” 1982ĢƵ “Private Audition” and 1983ĢƵ “Passionworks.”
Fronted by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, Heart has been a favorite of mine since purchasing a copy of “Dreamboat Annie,” which produced the hits “Magic Man” and “Crazy on You” more than 40 years ago.
Originally a bonus track on 2012ĢƵ “Fanatic,” the title track is a rough-and-tumble treat fueled with a special guest appearance by MetallicaĢƵ James Hetfield.
“Such a drama queen/A hot mess/Underneath her temper, underneath her dress/Like a raw flame/She got a secret mind/Getting your attention each and every time,” sings Ann.
As is the case with most Heart performances, hot drama indeed.
In addition to the back catalog redos, “Beautiful Broken” features three new arrangements.
On “Two,” a piano-led ballad written by R&B artist Ne-Yo, Nancy gets a shot to demonstrate her vocal talents while the weighty guitar riffs delivered by her on “Heaven” and “I Jump” accentuate AnnĢƵ muscular vocals, giving the tracks a throwback style.
“Sweet Darlin'” spotlightĢƵ one of AnnĢƵ best singing performances of the album as lush strings tenderly orchestrate the numberĢƵ mood and message.
Heart fanatics will certainly savor the new album as they patiently wait for more original material to come.
With over 35 million albums sold, I’ve always regretted not catching one of heartĢƵ electrifying live performances.
The opportunity presents itself again when Heart rolls into Pittsburgh on July 21 with Cheap Trick and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.
Now thatĢƵ what I call a real Rock and Roll Hall of Fame show.