SHERYL CROW: Evolution (ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

After "Threads", released in 2019 and on which she collaborated with such big names as Sting, Eric Clapton, Keith Richards and Don Henley, Sheryl Crow announced that she would not be releasing any further albums. This one seemed to her to be of such a high standard, given the talent of all the artists with whom she had associated, that she didn't feel capable of producing a work that could stand comparison. All she could think of was releasing a few singles and getting involved with other artists, which she recently did by accompanying Mark Knopfler and a host of musicians on his version of 'Going Home - The from Local Hero' in aid of children with cancer. And yet, on November 3, 2023, the day of her induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, the news came: a twelfth opus was on the way.

Clearly inspired by his children, "Evolution" saw the light of day in March 2024, just as the single "Alarm Clock", released on November 3, had made our mouths water. With its saturated riff, claps and heady chorus, it was an excellent hors d'oeuvre. Admittedly, we were still in classic territory for the American star, but it was hard to resist the freshness it exuded. Among the three other singles released in the months leading up to the album's release, 'Do It Again' was also a light, catchy pop song, despite its lyrics denouncing pretence. The eponymous track, on the other hand, proved more surprising. Dark and questioning artificial intelligence in a wide-ranging, captivating atmosphere, it also featured a solo by Tom Morello in his unique style. Last but not least, 'Digging In The Dirt' was nothing less than a respectful cover of the Peter Gabriel song ("Us" - 1992) in the company of its legendary author.

It's fair to say that the singles were not chosen by chance, as they represent the most interesting parts of a whole that nevertheless remains at a more than respectable level. Such is the case with the catchy 'Love Life', with its throbbing bass and funky finale. The problem, however, lies in the abundance of ballads, which, although often delicate and moving ('Don't Walk Away'), end up plunging the listener into a state of lethargy. Only the groovy 'Broken Record', with its hints of Smash Mouth's 'All Star', shakes up the slightly too peaceful atmosphere into which 'Evolution' sinks.

Although it remains within the quality standards to which Sheryl Crow has accustomed us throughout his career, "Evolution" does not represent a summit for all that. Nevertheless, it remains a pleasant surprise that will delight aficionados of the 60-year-old who still doesn't look her age, as well as all fans of her country, folk and blues-infused pop. - Official website

SHERYL CROW

EVOLUTION

AUTRE LABEL

ROCK