Artist: Danielle Nicole
Album: Wolf Den
Label: Concord
Release Date: 09/25/2015
Former Trampled Under Foot singer and bassist Danielle Nicole comes into her own on Wolf Den, her recent solo release. Clearly influenced by Stevie Nicks and Bonnie Raitt, Nicole excels at performing tight, well-crafted songs featuring catchy hooks and a taste of the blues. The backing band wisely keeps the arrangements simple and low key, allowing Nicole’s rich, sultry voice to take center stage.
The simmering title track starts the album off on the right foot. Terse, bluesy guitar leads from Anders Osborne and Mike “Shinetop” Sedovic’s deft keyboard riffs create a noirish mood that perfectly suit Nicole’s tale of danger and temptation. “Just Give Me Tonight,” a passionate tale of unrequited desire, is a perfect showcase for Nicole’s deep, sensual vocals. “Didn’t Do You No Good” is an energetic piece of guitar-driven rock that will remind listeners of Heart at their peak. Nicole has the chops to keep up when the band rocks out – her soaring vocals would do Ann Wilson proud.
The album’s biggest treat for blues fans is a cover of the Al Jackson-penned chestnut, “I Feel Like Breaking Up Somebody’s Home.” Perhaps inspired by the presence of guest guitarist Luther Dickinson, the band cuts loose on this tack. Osborne’s rhythm guitar and Sendovic’s keyboards meld into a pulsating groove with just the right amount of Memphis grease. Nicole’s performance shows listeners that she can tackle traditional blues with aplomb. Danielle Nicole’s winning combination of radio-friendly polish and bluesy grit makes her a talent to watch.
– Jon Kleinman
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