I really hate having to write a bad review for such an iconic figure, but -dammit- you put out a piece of crap we're gonna call you on it. "Trouble in Shangri-La" (2001) is likely to please only the most die hard Stevie Nicks fans.
Stevie assembled an impressive team to help her with this solo effort, including Sheryl Crow (fresh off the heels of her successful first albums), "Heartbreaker" Mike Campbell, one-hit wonder Macy Gray (remember "I Try"?), Sarah McLachlan, and ace producer Chris Lord-Alge. And according to the linear notes, we have Tom Petty to thank for this mess, who evidently inspired Stevie to write these songs in 1995.
So what is the problem? It's a dream team but the songs are nightmares. Stevie sounds like Stevie should - commendable after all these years - but hearing her voice rasp its way through one snore of a track after another is just a heartbreaking waste. Sadly, she penned most of these snores herself, with only "Love Changes" and "Love Is" hitting a chord with me. "Love Is" features some trademark backing vocals from Sarah McLachlan, which definitely help elevate the track a bit from its slumber. The standout track, "Every Day" was written by other folks. For you Sheryl Crow fans, you may be pleased that she contributes backing vocals on a number of tracks and wrote the tune, "It's Only Love". One listen to it, though, and you'll realize why she gave it away. "Fall From Grace" is the only real rocker, but consistent with most of the other tunes, is completely forgettable.
iPOD-worthy: 5, 9, 13
Stevie Nicks - official site.
Check out the music video for "Sorcerer" (with Sheryl Crow):
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