Music review: Sheryl Crow – ‘Threads’
Right from the start, Sheryl Crow had me hooked with “Tuesday Night Music Club.” The Missouri nativeĢƵ 1993 debut release featured infectious tracks such as “All I Wanna Do,” “Leaving Las Vegas,” “Can’t Cry Anymore” and “Strong Enough.”
Three years later, the singer-songwriterĢƵ self-titled release followed with the hits “A Change Would Do You Good” and “If It Makes You Happy.”
These two albums would catapult Crow to stardom and serve as the foundation for a diverse and fruitful career.
For her 11th studio album, the 57-year-old Crow finds inspiration from the artists who influenced her throughout her storied musical journey.
Crow has stated that this will be her final album, although she promises to continue to perform and make new music in other formats.
With “Threads,” Crow gives it everything sheĢƵ got through a collaborative effort from an extensive list of talented friends on a spectacular set of 17 tracks, consisting of original arrangements as well as some intriguing covers.
Things get off to a rousing start with Stevie Nicks and Maren Morris joining Crow for a stirring performance on the country rocker “Prove You Wrong.”
Chris Stapleton and Crow prove to be an enthralling pairing as the two deliver a whole lot of soul and blues during “Tell Me When ItĢƵ Over.”
Things get funky and real in a hurry as Chuck D, Andra Day and Gary Clark Jr. join the party for “Story of Everything.”
Notable covers include Crow enlisting a little assistance from Eric Clapton, Sting and Brandi Carlile on an engaging version of George HarrisonĢƵ “Beware of Darkness,” a heartfelt offering with Keith Richards on the Richards and Mick Jagger penned “The Worst” and a spirited performance with Jason Isbell on Bob DylanĢƵ “Everything Is Broken.”
Originally written by Crow and later covered by Johnny Cash, the showstopper of the set comes on “Redemption Day.” The songĢƵ powerful lyrics are showcased with an exceptional performance from Crow and the added vocals of Cash. ItĢƵ an intoxicating combination that truly hits home as you can feel the relief expressed when freedom is finally experienced at the close of this haunting number.
Additional guest appearances by Joe Walsh, Bonnie Raitt, Mavis Staples, Lukas Nelson, Neil Young, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, St. Vincent, Lucius, Emmylou Harris, James Taylor and Vince Gill help make “Threads” a sweet-sounding album adieu for Crow, who can now prepare for the next chapter of her artistic calling.
Clint Rhodes is the ĢƵ music reviewer. He can be reached at clinton43@me.com.

