Heart has been racking up the frequent tour miles for the last few years. But after blowing minds, including President Obama’s, with their rendition of “Stairway To Heaven” at the Kennedy Center Honors and then being inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, the band have ascended to a new level of respect and distinction — fitting enough to land them a sold-out gig at London’s prestigious Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. And fortunately for those who couldn’t make the trek, it was all caught on film. Live At The Royal Albert Hall With The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, now on DVD, Blu-ray, CD and digitally, captures Heart in their element, balancing sweet, pastoral melodies with heavy riffs and a full orchestra.
Singer Ann Wilson with her sister Nancy on guitar and vocals, are joined by drummer Ben Smith, bassist Dan Rothchild, guitarist Craig Bartock and keyboardist Chris Joyner mix it up with songs from the group’s most recent album, Beautiful Broken, including the title track, “Heaven” and “Two,” alongside classics like “Alone,” “What About Love,” “Barracuda,” “Magic Man” and “Dreamboat Annie,” which features Ann Wilson on flute. Playing the UK, it only seems natural Heart would nod their head to Led Zeppelin. They do so in style and reverence with a stirring cover of “No Quarter.” Even Grandma will dig this after a couple eggnogs.
~ Shawn Perry
