Heart (Brigade)
The Album
Heart (Brigade) is the tenth studio album by the American rock band. It was released on 26 March 1990 by Capitol Records.
Heart, the iconic female rock band fronted by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, has etched their name in the annals of rock history. With their ninth studio album, “Brigade,” released in 1990, Heart delivered a powerful musical statement that showcased their evolution and enduring relevance in the rock landscape. This review delves into the essence of “Brigade,” exploring its diverse sound, impactful lyrics, and the unmistakable signature of the Wilson sisters.
Diverse Sonic Palette
“Brigade” introduces listeners to a diverse sonic palette that reflects Heart’s ability to seamlessly navigate various rock subgenres. From the anthemic arena rock of “Wild Child” to the blues-infused swagger of “Stranded,” the album showcases a range of influences. The Wilson sisters, with their distinct vocal styles, breathe life into each track, ensuring that “Brigade” is a dynamic and engaging listening experience from start to finish.
The album’s lead single, “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You,” stands out as a prime example of Heart’s prowess in crafting radio-friendly hits. The song’s infectious melody and Ann Wilson’s powerhouse vocals create an irresistible combination. Meanwhile, tracks like “Secret” and “Under the Sky” explore more introspective and melodic territories, adding depth to the album’s overall sound.
Lyrical Depth and Emotional Resonance
Heart has always been known for infusing their music with thought-provoking lyrics and emotional depth, and “Brigade” is no exception. The lyrics of the album touch on themes of love, desire, and introspection, delivered with a poetic finesse that elevates the listening experience.
The storytelling in “All I Wanna Do Is Make Love to You” unfolds with a cinematic quality, portraying a complex narrative of love and longing. Similarly, the introspective and introspective lyrics of “I Love You” and “Secret” reveal a vulnerability that resonates with listeners on a personal level. The Wilson sisters’ ability to convey genuine emotion through their lyrics adds a layer of authenticity to “Brigade,” making it more than just a collection of songs but a narrative journey through the complexities of the human experience.
Guitar Virtuosity and Musical Prowess
Nancy Wilson’s guitar work on “Brigade” is nothing short of virtuosic. Her dynamic and expressive playing style is a defining element of Heart’s sound, and it takes center stage throughout the album. Whether it’s the soulful blues licks on “Stranded” or the fiery solos on “Cruel Tears,” Nancy Wilson’s guitar prowess adds a layer of musical richness that complements Ann Wilson’s vocals.
The chemistry between the band members is palpable, with each instrument contributing to the overall tapestry of sound. The rhythm section, featuring bassist Mark Andes and drummer Denny Carmassi, provides a solid foundation, allowing the melodies and vocals to soar. The production, helmed by Richie Zito, captures the essence of Heart’s live energy while maintaining a polished studio sheen.
Timeless Appeal and Lasting Impact
“Brigade” not only represents a snapshot of Heart’s musical evolution in the late ’80s and early ’90s but also stands as a testament to their enduring appeal. The album’s ability to seamlessly blend various rock elements, coupled with the emotional depth of its lyrics, ensures that it remains relevant and enjoyable for both longtime fans and new listeners discovering Heart’s discography.
Conclusion
“Brigade” by Heart is a triumph of musical craftsmanship and artistic expression. From its diverse sonic landscape to its poignant lyrics, the album encapsulates the essence of Heart’s prowess as a rock powerhouse. As a pivotal chapter in the band’s illustrious career, “Brigade” continues to resonate with audiences, solidifying Heart’s legacy as one of the foremost female-led rock acts in the history of the genre.
Track Listing
- Wild Child
- All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You
- Secret
- Tall Dark Handsome Stranger
- I Didn’t Want To Need You
- The Night
- Fallen From Grace
- Under The Sky
- Cruel Nights
- Stranded
- Call OF The Wild
- I Want Your World To Turn
- I Love You
All I Wanna Do Is Make Love To You
Lyrics
It was a rainy night when
He came into sight
Standing by the road, no umbrella,
No coat
So I pulled up along side and
I offered him a ride
He accepted with a smile
So we drove for a while
I didn’t ask him his name,
This lonely boy in the rain
Fate tell me it’s right,
Is this love at first sight
Please don’t make it wrong
Just stay for the night
All I wanna do is make love to you
Say you will
You want me too
All I wanna do is make love to you
I’ve got lovin’ arms to hold on to
So we found this hotel,
It was a place I knew well
We made magic that night.
Oh, he did everything right
He brought the woman out of me,
So many times, easily
And in the morning when he woke
All I left him was a note
I told him
“I am the flower you are the seed”
We walked in the garden
We planted a tree
Don’t try to find me,
Please don’t you dare
Just live in my memory,
You’ll always be there
All I wanna do is make love to you
One night of love was all we knew
All I wanna do is make love to you
I’ve got lovin’ arms to hold on to
Oh, oooh, we made love
Love like strangers
All night long
We made love
Then it happened one day,
We came around the same way
You can imagine his surprise
When he saw his own eyes
I said “please, please understand
I’m in love with another man
And what he couldn’t give me, how-oh
Was the one little thing that you can”
All I wanna do is make love to you
One night of love was all we knew
All I wanna do is make love to you
Say you will, you want me too
All night long
All night long
All night long
All night long