American singer-songwriter Dan Wilson is back with his second solo album, Love Without Fear. Best known as the lead singer of rock band Semisonic and for co-writing a multitude of hits, including Adele’s Someone Like You, Wilson has created an album full of radio friendly pop songs, exploring a wide range of emotions including love, sadness and hope.
Wilson’s smooth vocals, acoustic guitar work and impressive songwriting prowess are all on show throughout Love Without Fear. Three of the best tracks on this album feature guest artists providing harmonious backing vocals: Natalie Maines from the Dixie Chicks on the opener and title track Love Without Fear, Missy Higgins on Even the Stars Are Sleeping andSara Bareilles on heartfelt ballad Disappearing, the standout track which combines vocals, guitar and piano beautifully. A Song Can Be About Anything and Your Brighter Days areother favourites, with catchy melodies.
It’s been seven years between albums for Dan Wilson, and Love Without Fear has proven to be just as enjoyable as his first album Free Life. The acoustic nature of Love Without Fear ensures that it’s an easy listen.
BY ALI BIRNIE
Best Track: Disappearing
If You Like This, You’ll Like This: GARY JULES
In A Word: Smooth
