Ann Wilson has some Fierce Bliss, her 2022 solo album, for us all. From the opener “Greed,” to the Zeppelinesque “Black Wing,” to deep originals and sailing covers, we get lots of fierceness from the Heart vocalist. Along with members of her touring band, The Amazing Dawgs, Wilson enlisted some well-known guests to help flesh out the record. Her takes on Robin Trower’s “Bridge Of Sighs” and the Eurythmics’ “Missionary Man,” features Kenny Wayne Shepherd on lead guitar, while Queen’s “Love Of My Life,” has the main lady duetting with Vince Gill.
Guitarist Warren Haynes, who leads his own outfit Govt. Mule, roils under the epic centerpiece “Gladiator.” If this doesn’t sound like classic Heart, nothing here does. Haynes also joins her on the dangerous slow blues of “Angel’s Blues.” If you ever needed an example of how this guy can shake the heavens, this is it! Joined by Govt. Mule drummer Matt Abts, Haynes also produced both of these tunes.
Ann Wilson says she wants to explore music in new ways, while she claims her sister, Nancy, is fine mining Heart’s legacy. Filled with some truly solid material and fantastic players, Fierce Bliss is definitely a heavier and bluesier collection than you would expect from Heart. Sprinkle in album artwork from celebrated artist Roger Dean, and this record is something you’ll want to check out.
~ Ralph Greco, Jr.
