Sari Schorr - 'Running Wild' album review

With a show-stopping voice that straddles five octaves with ease, it’s something of an injustice that Brooklyn powerhouse Sari Schorr doesn’t receive more recognition for her talents. Three albums in (four if you include her collaboration with legendary blues guitarist Robin Trower), Schorr decided to let go of judgement, stop worrying about expectations and trust her instincts. It’s a philosophy that led to ‘Running Wild’, an album that cleverly encompasses driving rock, heavy blues, beautiful ballads and life affirming anthems whilst always feeling cohesive. 

The lively ‘Mr. in the Middle’ sets the tone, a hard-grooving reflection on an on-off relationship that positions Schorr’s voice somewhere between the sultry rasp of Joanne Shaw Taylor and the powerful blues belting of Beth Hart. Full of energy and life, the joyful sense of freedom feeds nicely into the title track. ‘Running Wild’ sets elegant, confessional verses against an explosive chorus that allows Schorr to really let rip, albeit with unbelievable control even at the top of her range. 

Backed by a fantastic band comprised of guitarist Jamie Walker, drummer Luke Paget and keyboard player Bennett Holland, it seems these musicians can turn their hand to anything. Whether it’s the bluesy ‘Monday Morning’ with its laid-back, bar-room vibe and piano interlude, or the swaggering ‘Cool Hand Rider’ that marries Schorr’s distinctive holler to gutsy rock guitars, they’ve got it covered.

In terms of highlights, the goosebump inducing ballad ‘Man On Fire’ shows Schorr at her most pared back, singing with elegance, and backed by acoustic guitar. It’s an example of using restraint to great effect, emotion poured into every line. ‘Call it Freedom’ is quite spectacular, slowing the pace but upping the thrills with an unbelievable chorus that seemingly erupts from Schorr’s very soul. For ‘Finding My Way’, Schorr slips into the role of gravel throated balladeer, giving her all to a performance that is reminiscent of Janis Joplin at her uninhibited best. 

I suspect there are not many albums out there that will move you in the way that ‘Running Wild’ does so effortlessly. Schorr has stated that she hopes these songs will “remind [us] that brighter days are possible”; I’d say it’s mission accomplished. Check out ‘Running Wild’ from the 9th October.