Ann Wilson, IMMORTAL

Cover albums often have a common theme, and Ann Wilson (lead singer of Heart) has a common thread on her new album Immortal: performers who have passed away but who left a deep impact on the musical landscape.  Her voice and their music prove to be a strong combination.

Immortal is composed of mostly deep cuts (except for "You Don't Own Me" and "Baker Street"), from artists who have passed away fairly recently and left an impact on the musical landscape.  Songs vary from the poetic (Leonard Cohen's "A Thousand Kisses Deep") to the extremely suggestive (Cream's "Politician") to the inspirational (Lesley Gore's "You Don't Own Me").

Ann Wilson's vocals are powerful and subtle, adapting themselves to the soft rhythms of "Luna" or the tough commentary of "I'm Afraid of Americans."  The songs aim for originality rather than copying the originals, and while this doesn't always work, it's a mostly successful formula.  The result makes Immortal a very good listen -- and a nice tribute to some of those who have passed on.

Overall grade: A-
Reviewed by James Lynch