Note that the EEC Pressing of Heart's Brigade LP has a 'colored' Capitol Records Label, while the USA pressing of this album has a Black Label, see photos of the record label further below
n the vast realm of music, few bands have managed to capture the hearts of audiences and etch their names in the annals of rock history. Heart, the powerhouse duo of Ann and Nancy Wilson, achieved exactly that with their 12" vinyl LP album "Brigade". Released in 1990, "Brigade" is a musical tapestry woven with passion, emotion, and the unmistakable artistry of the Wilson sisters.
A Dual Force of Talent
Ann and Nancy Wilson, the driving forces behind Heart, brought an unparalleled dynamic to the world of rock music. "Brigade" showcases not only their individual prowess but also the remarkable synergy that came from their collaboration. Ann's commanding vocals, capable of traversing a wide emotional spectrum, resonated with listeners on a deeply personal level. Meanwhile, Nancy's multifaceted musical talents, ranging from acoustic and electric guitars to harmonica, keyboards, and mandolin, added a unique dimension to the album's sound.
A Symphony of Musicianship
"Brigade" wasn't just a showcase for Ann and Nancy; it was a collective effort that brought together a group of skilled musicians to create a harmonious sonic landscape. The album's lineup reads like a who's who of accomplished artists who added their individual touches to each track.
Greg Adams, Emillio Castillo, Steve Grove, and Stephen Kupka formed a powerhouse horn section that injected energy and flair into the album. Mark Andes on bass and background vocals, Kim Bullard on keyboards, and Denny Carmassi on drums formed a solid foundation for the musical arrangements.
Notably, Howard Leese's contributions on guitar, rhythm guitar, keyboards, and mandolin were instrumental in shaping the album's varied soundscape. Additionally, Richie Zito's guitar work added layers of texture and depth, showcasing his proficiency as both a guitarist and a collaborator in the production process.
Behind the Scenes
"Brigade" bears the distinct touch of its producers, Richie Zito and Ron Nevison. Their expertise in the studio ensured that the album's sonic qualities were finely tuned, allowing the melodies and harmonies to shine through. The album's production values are a testament to their commitment to capturing the essence of Heart's music.
The album's visual identity was encapsulated in its cover art, which not only serves as a visual representation of the music but also reflects the spirit of the times. The contrast between the colored Capitol Records label of the EEC pressing and the black label of the USA pressing underscores the album's international reach and enduring appeal.
Music Genre: 80s American Female Rock |
Album Production Information: Produced by Richie Zito and Ron Nevison |
Record Label Information: Capitol 064-7 91820 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP |
Year & Country: 1990 Made in EEC |
Band Members and Musicians on: Heart Brigade with Ann & Nancy Wilson |
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
Portrait photos of the HEART band-members
Lyrics of all the songs Brigade are printed on the original custom inner sleeve
"Brigade" Record Label Details: Capitol Records 064-7 91820 1 ℗ 1990 Capitol Records Sound Copyright
Heart is an American rock band that has been entertaining audiences since the 1970s. The band has undergone several lineup changes over the years, but the core of the group has always been the Wilson sisters, Ann and Nancy. Heart's music is characterized by its powerful vocals, memorable guitar riffs, and poignant lyrics that speak to the human experience.
Heart was formed in 1973 in Seattle, Washington by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson. They were joined by guitarist Roger Fisher, bassist Steve Fossen, drummer Michael Derosier, and keyboardist Howard Leese. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1976 and included the hit single "Crazy on You." The song's opening acoustic guitar riff, paired with Ann's powerful vocals, helped to establish Heart's signature sound and catapulted the band to success.
Over the next few years, Heart released several more albums, including "Little Queen," "Magazine," and "Dog & Butterfly." The band's music evolved over time, incorporating elements of hard rock, folk, and pop. Despite these changes, the Wilson sisters remained the driving force behind the band, with Ann's vocals and Nancy's guitar work serving as the centerpiece of their sound.
In the 1980s, Heart reached even greater heights of success. The band's 1985 album, "Heart," produced four top 10 hits, including "What About Love," "Never," and "These Dreams." The album cemented Heart's status as one of the biggest rock bands of the era and helped to establish the Wilson sisters as trailblazers for women in rock.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Heart continued to release music and tour extensively. The band's sound shifted yet again, incorporating elements of alternative rock and grunge into their music. Despite changing musical trends, Heart remained popular and influential, inspiring a new generation of rock musicians.
In 2012, Heart was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band's induction was a well-deserved recognition of their impact on the world of rock music. The Wilson sisters continue to perform and record music to this day, showcasing their enduring talent and passion for their craft.
Heart's music speaks to a universal human experience, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and the struggle for self-discovery. Their powerful vocals, memorable guitar riffs, and poignant lyrics have resonated with audiences for decades, earning the band a well-deserved place in the pantheon of rock and roll legends.
Ann Wilson, a powerhouse vocalist and songwriter, is widely recognized as one of the most influential women in rock music. As the founder and frontwoman of the iconic rock band Heart, she has captivated audiences with her distinctive voice, emotional performances, and unwavering passion for music. This biography delves into the life and career of Ann Wilson, exploring her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a rock and roll legend.
Early Life and Musical Upbringing:
Born on 19 June 1950, in San Diego, California, Ann Dustin Wilson grew up in a household that nurtured her love for music. She was the daughter of a major in the U.S. Marine Corps, and her family frequently relocated due to her father's military assignments. These experiences exposed her to various musical styles and cultures, contributing to the eclectic nature of her later work.
In her teenage years, Ann and her younger sister Nancy Wilson discovered their shared passion for music and began performing together. They were influenced by the sounds of The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and other prominent rock acts of the era. Determined to pursue their dreams, the Wilson sisters honed their musical skills, with Ann focusing on vocals and Nancy mastering the guitar.
Formation of Heart:
In the early 1970s, Ann and Nancy Wilson moved to Vancouver, Canada, where they joined forces with guitarist Roger Fisher, bassist Steve Fossen, and drummer Michael Derosier to form the band Heart. With Ann's powerful vocals at the forefront, Heart quickly gained attention for their energetic performances and unique blend of rock, folk, and pop elements.
Their debut album, "Dreamboat Annie", released in 1976, showcased Ann's commanding voice and the band's ability to craft unforgettable songs. The album's hit singles, "Magic Man" and "Crazy on You", propelled Heart to international success, solidifying their place in the male-dominated rock scene.
Musical Achievements and Evolution:
Throughout Heart's extensive discography, Ann Wilson's vocals became synonymous with the band's sound. Her ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability in songs like "Alone", "Barracuda", and "These Dreams" resonated with millions of fans worldwide. Heart's music touched on a range of themes, including love, heartbreak, and societal issues, earning them critical acclaim and commercial success.
Ann's versatile voice allowed her to experiment with different genres, and Heart's catalog encompasses rock, hard rock, pop, and even orchestral arrangements. Their innovative approach to music solidified their status as pioneers of the genre, paving the way for future female rock musicians.
Personal Life and Legacy:
Ann Wilson's success as a musician often eclipsed her personal life, but her journey has not been without its challenges. Over the years, she has faced struggles with weight, addiction, and the pressures of fame. However, her resilience and dedication to her craft have allowed her to overcome these obstacles and continue creating music that resonates with fans of all generations.
Heart's impact on the rock landscape is immeasurable. They have sold over 35 million records worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Ann Wilson's voice remains an iconic force, influencing countless aspiring musicians and proving that women have a rightful place in rock music.
Today, Ann Wilson continues to perform as a solo artist, captivating audiences with her unmatched vocal prowess and stage presence. Her commitment to her artistry and her ongoing evolution as a musician demonstrate that her journey is far from over.
Nancy Wilson, a talented guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, is renowned for her instrumental contributions to the legendary rock band Heart. As a co-founder of the band alongside her sister Ann Wilson, Nancy has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. This biography delves into the life and career of Nancy Wilson, exploring her musical journey, innovative guitar work, and her role in shaping the sound of Heart.
Early Life and Musical Pursuits:
Nancy Lamoureaux Wilson was born on 16 March 16 in San Francisco, California. Growing up in a musical household, she was exposed to a diverse range of genres, including rock, blues, and folk. Nancy's passion for music was ignited at a young age, and she gravitated towards the guitar as her instrument of choice.
Together with her sister Ann, Nancy embarked on a musical journey, honing her guitar skills and developing a unique playing style. Influenced by rock pioneers such as Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix, Nancy combined intricate fingerpicking, melodic leads, and rhythmic power chords to create her signature sound.
Formation of Heart and Musical Contributions:
In the early 1970s, Nancy Wilson and her sister Ann relocated to Vancouver, Canada, where they formed the rock band Heart. Nancy's distinctive guitar playing and backing vocals became an integral part of the band's sound. Her ability to seamlessly blend acoustic and electric guitar elements added depth and texture to Heart's music, while her harmonies complemented Ann's powerful lead vocals.
Nancy's contributions extended beyond her guitar work. She played a pivotal role in crafting Heart's songwriting, co-writing many of the band's hits alongside her sister. Her knack for writing memorable hooks and poignant lyrics helped define Heart's sound and contributed to their success.
Musical Achievements and Evolution:
Heart's debut album, "Dreamboat Annie" (1976), showcased Nancy Wilson's exceptional guitar skills on tracks like "Crazy on You" and "Magic Man", catapulting the band to fame. As Heart's discography expanded, Nancy continued to impress with her versatility, incorporating elements of hard rock, folk, and pop into their music.
Notable songs such as "Barracuda", "Straight On", and "Never" exemplified Nancy's mastery of both acoustic and electric guitar, combining intricate riffs and memorable solos. Her playing showcased a remarkable range of emotions, from fiery and aggressive to tender and introspective, solidifying her reputation as one of rock's most accomplished guitarists.
Beyond Heart:
While Heart remains Nancy Wilson's primary musical focus, she has also pursued solo projects throughout her career. She released her first solo album, "Live at McCabe's Guitar Shop", in 1999, further showcasing her abilities as a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Nancy's solo work allowed her to explore different musical avenues, highlighting her versatility and creative range.
Legacy and Impact:
Nancy Wilson's contributions to rock music are immeasurable. As a pioneering female guitarist, she shattered stereotypes and inspired generations of musicians. Her innovative playing style, blending delicate fingerpicking with powerful rock chords, opened doors for aspiring female guitarists and challenged the notion that rock was a male-dominated genre.
Heart's enduring success, with over 35 million records sold worldwide, is a testament to Nancy Wilson's influence and the band's timeless music. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 further solidifies their legacy in the world of rock history.