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Beautiful Broken
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| Beautiful Broken | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | ||||
| Studio album by | ||||
| Released | July 8, 2016 | |||
| Studio |
| |||
| Genre | ||||
| Length | 40:19 | |||
| Label | Concord | |||
| Producer |
| |||
| Heart chronology | ||||
| ||||
| Aggregate scores | |
|---|---|
| Source | Rating |
| Metacritic | 72/100[1] |
| Review scores | |
| Source | Rating |
| AllMusic |   [2] |
| Louder Sound | [3] |
| PopMatters | [4] |
| Renowned for Sound | [5] |
Beautiful Broken is the sixteenth studio album by American rock band Heart, released on July 8, 2016, by Concord Records. Aside from two new songs, the album consists mostly of re-interpretations of songs from the band's earlier albums.[6]
Track listing
[edit]| No. | Title | Writer(s) | Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | "Beautiful Broken" (original version on the Fanatic deluxe edition) | 2:25 | |
| 2. | "Two" |
| 4:23 |
| 3. | "Sweet Darlin'" (original version on Bébé le Strange) | A. Wilson | 3:52 |
| 4. | "I Jump" |
| 3:52 |
| 5. | "Johnny Moon" (original version on Passionworks) |
| 4:15 |
| 6. | "Heaven" (original version on Alive in Seattle) |
| 5:23 |
| 7. | "City's Burning" (original version on Private Audition) |
| 3:50 |
| 8. | "Down on Me" (original version on Bébé le Strange) |
| 5:12 |
| 9. | "One Word" (original version on Private Audition) | N. Wilson | 3:33 |
| 10. | "Language of Love" (original version on Passionworks) |
| 3:34 |
Personnel
[edit]Credits adapted from the liner notes of Beautiful Broken.[7]
Heart
[edit]- Ann Wilson – vocals (tracks 1, 3–10); background vocals (tracks 2, 7); autoharp (track 6)
- Nancy Wilson – guitar (tracks 1–3, 5, 7, 8); background vocals (tracks 1, 2, 4–7, 10); vocals (tracks 2, 9); marxophone (track 5); bowed acoustic guitar (track 6); acoustic guitar (tracks 7, 10); autoharp, handclaps, whispers (track 10)
- Ben Smith – drums (all tracks); percussion (tracks 3, 5–10); claps, snaps (track 9)
- Craig Bartock – guitars (tracks 1, 4–8); acoustic guitar (tracks 3, 9, 10); 12-string acoustic guitar (tracks 3, 5); background vocals (tracks 4, 10); percussive guitar, claps, snaps (track 9)
- Chris Joyner – synthesizers (tracks 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9); piano (tracks 2–5); Wurlitzer (tracks 4, 7, 9, 10); Hammond B3 (tracks 4, 10); field organ, nylon-string guitar (track 9)
- Dan Rothchild – bass (tracks 1, 3, 4–8, 10); background vocals (tracks 1, 5–7, 10); additional synthesizer (tracks 1, 9); Moog bass (tracks 2, 6); Hammond B3, additional piano (track 2); background vocals (tracks 2, 4); guitar (track 4); acoustic guitar (tracks 4, 6); lap steel guitar (tracks 4, 5); percussion (tracks 5, 7, 10); textures (track 5); upright bass (tracks 6, 9); additional guitar (track 7); handclaps (track 10)
Additional musicians
[edit]- James Hetfield – vocals, background vocals (track 1)
- Paul Buckmaster – string arrangement (tracks 3, 4, 7, 10)
- Hungarian Studio Orchestra – strings (tracks 3, 4, 7, 10)
- Péter Illényi – conducting
- Péter Kanyurszky – concertmaster
- Ken Sluiter – additional textures (track 5); claps, snaps (track 9); textures (track 10)
- Billy Mims – claps, snaps (track 9)
- Dwight Mikkelsen – copyist
Technical
[edit]- Dan Rothchild – production
- Nancy Wilson – production
- Ken Sluiter – engineering, mixing
- Bill Mims – additional engineering
- Howie Weinberg – mastering
- Gentry Studer – mastering assistance
- Chris Claypool – engineering assistance
- Geoff Neal – engineering assistance
- Greg Fidelman – additional engineering (James Hetfield's vocals)
- Kurina Tamás – strings recording
Artwork
[edit]- Brian McGuffey – artwork
- Nancy Wilson – art direction
- Anna Knowlden – photography
- Dan Rothchild – photography
Charts
[edit]| Chart (2016) | Peak position |
|---|---|
| Belgian Albums (Ultratop Flanders)[8] | 136 |
| Scottish Albums (OCC)[9] | 29 |
| UK Albums (OCC)[10] | 77 |
| US Billboard 200[11] | 105 |
| US Top Rock Albums (Billboard)[12] | 9 |
Notes
[edit]- ^ Strings
References
[edit]- ^ "Beautiful Broken by Heart Reviews and Tracks". Metacritic. Retrieved February 20, 2021.
- ^ Jurek, Thom. "Beautiful Broken – Heart". AllMusic. Retrieved August 1, 2016.
- ^ Dome, Malcolm (July 8, 2016). "Heart – Beautiful Broken album review". Louder Sound. Retrieved February 20, 2021.
- ^ Caldwell, Rob (August 1, 2016). "Heart: Beautiful Broken". PopMatters. Retrieved February 20, 2021.
- ^ Mule, Jessica. "Album Review: Heart – Beautiful Broken". Renowned for Sound. Retrieved February 20, 2021.
- ^ Kaufman, Gil (July 6, 2016). "Heart Returns with New Album 'Beautiful Broken,' Featuring Metallica's James Hefield: Exclusive Premiere". Billboard. Retrieved December 17, 2017.
- ^ Beautiful Broken (liner notes). Heart. Concord Records. 2016. CRE00107.
{{cite AV media notes}}: CS1 maint: others in cite AV media (notes) (link) - ^ "Ultratop.be – Heart – Beautiful Broken" (in Dutch). Hung Medien. Retrieved July 22, 2016.
- ^ "Official Scottish Albums Chart on 15/7/2016 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved July 16, 2016.
- ^ "Official Albums Chart on 15/7/2016 – Top 100". Official Charts Company. Retrieved July 16, 2016.
- ^ "Heart Chart History (Billboard 200)". Billboard. Retrieved July 19, 2016.
- ^ "Heart Chart History (Top Rock Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved July 18, 2018.
| Studio albums | |
|---|---|
| Live albums | |
| Compilation albums | |
| Singles |
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Beautiful Broken
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Background and recording
Development and concept
After the release of their 2012 album Fanatic, Heart continued their creative output, leading to the development of Beautiful Broken. The Wilsons sought to revitalize the band's legacy by reinterpreting tracks from their catalog.[1] The album's core concept centered on reinterpreting lesser-known tracks from Heart's 1980s and early 1990s catalog, albums that suffered from subpar production influenced by the era's excesses and failed to achieve the commercial heights of earlier works like Dreamboat Annie (1975) or Little Queen (1977).[3] Specifically, the band selected songs from Private Audition (1982), Passionworks (1983), and Desire Walks On (1993), eras Nancy Wilson later critiqued for their "sound of the music, the performances… there was kind of a lot of drug use going on… It sounded like that," resulting in muddled mixes that overshadowed the material's potential.[4] These re-recordings aimed to strip away the dated '80s gloss, infusing them with a raw, '70s-inspired edge to highlight their enduring strengths.[3] The titular theme "beautiful broken" encapsulated this redemptive ethos, symbolizing both personal healing and the artistic salvage of flawed creations, as Nancy Wilson explained it as "about somebody who is really beautiful, but they’re also kind of insane"—a metaphor for embracing imperfections in life and music.[4] Initial planning began in 2015, with the Wilsons curating seven tracks for re-interpretation alongside three new original songs, allowing them to blend nostalgia with fresh expression.[4] This selective approach, as Ann Wilson noted, was about "revisit[ing] some of our older stuff and giv[ing] it a fresh coat of paint," ensuring the album served as a bridge between Heart's storied past and evolving present.[5]Recording sessions
The recording sessions for Beautiful Broken took place primarily at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, California, with string sessions conducted at Tom Tom Studios in Budapest, Hungary.[6] Sessions began in late 2015 and concluded by early 2016, allowing the band to focus on capturing a raw, live energy reminiscent of their 1970s sound while incorporating modern overdubs to enhance the overall production depth.[1] Co-production was handled by guitarist Nancy Wilson and the band's bassist Dan Rothchild, who emphasized the band's classic rock roots during the process. Engineering duties were led by Ken Sluiter and Bill Mims, with additional engineering for specific elements provided by Greg Fidelman.[7][1] Key guest contributions included Metallica frontman James Hetfield, who recorded his duet vocals for the title track "Beautiful Broken" remotely and contributed lyrics, adding a gritty rock edge to the song.[1][7] R&B artist Ne-Yo co-wrote the new track "Two," which featured Nancy Wilson on lead vocals.[1] String arrangements by Paul Buckmaster were recorded for four tracks—"Sweet Darlin'," "I Jump," "Heaven," and "Langue d'Amour"—performed by the Hungarian Studio Orchestra to provide lush, orchestral layers.[7][6] As Wilson noted of the sessions, "There is really a seventies feel to this record both in the sound, and the way we got to the emotional core of each song," highlighting the intentional blend of live instrumentation and contemporary polish.[1]Musical style and composition
New songs
The three original compositions on Beautiful Broken were crafted during recording sessions in 2015 to complement the album's re-recorded material, with the goal of infusing fresh energy and appealing to contemporary rock radio audiences.[1] Co-produced by Nancy Wilson and bassist Dan Rothchild, these tracks showcase the Wilson sisters' songwriting collaboration alongside key contributors, blending Heart's signature hard rock roots with modern production elements.[8] The title track, "Beautiful Broken," is a hard rock opener co-written by Ann Wilson, Nancy Wilson, Sue Ennis, and Dan Rothchild, clocking in at 2:26.[9] Featuring gritty duet vocals between Ann Wilson and guest Metallica frontman James Hetfield, the song embodies a raw, energetic style driven by aggressive guitar riffs and pounding drums.[10] Its lyrics explore themes of resilience amid emotional scars, inspired by the image of a "fabulous disaster" figure like Marianne Faithfull—someone weathered by life's trials yet unbowed and glamorous.[10] Ann Wilson penned the words in 2012 or 2013, drawing from observations of enduring yet battered icons, which Rothchild and the Wilsons then shaped into a concise, anthemic burst.[4] This version is a re-recording of a bonus track from the 2012 album Fanatic. "I Jump," an upbeat rock track written by Ann Wilson, Nancy Wilson, and Dan Rothchild, runs 3:52 and highlights the album's dynamic range.[9] Characterized by prominent guitar riffs, rhythmic bass lines from Rothchild, and shifting tempos that build from introspective verses to explosive choruses, it captures Heart's classic arena-rock flair with polished, radio-friendly hooks.[11] Thematically, the song delves into the exhilaration and peril of taking risks in relationships, portraying love as a bold leap requiring faith despite uncertainty.[12] Closing the new material is the ballad "Two," written by Ne-Yo, lasting 4:23.[9] Nancy Wilson adapted the demo, originally intended for another artist, and provides lead vocals over piano and strings arranged by Paul Buckmaster, offering a tender, introspective contrast to the album's harder edges, emphasizing emotional vulnerability through swelling orchestration.[4] The track focuses on the duality inherent in love— the tension between personal independence and shared intimacy, as well as external judgments versus internal connection.[13]Re-recorded songs
The re-recorded songs on Beautiful Broken comprise seven tracks drawn from Heart's catalog spanning the 1980s, forming 70% of the album's content and contributing to its theme of rediscovering overlooked gems through refreshed interpretations.[1] These selections were chosen for their strong songwriting, which the band felt was undermined by the commercial and production shifts of the era, such as the push toward synth-heavy sounds that diluted their rock essence.[1] By reworking them, Heart aimed to integrate these pieces into a cohesive sound that blends raw energy with orchestral depth, aligning with the album's overall narrative of beauty emerging from imperfection. Among the re-interpreted tracks is "Sweet Darlin'," originally from the 1980 album Bébé le Strange, now featuring enhanced vocals and lush string arrangements that add emotional layering to its heartfelt lyrics.[14] "Johnny Moon," from 1983's Passionworks, adds a psychedelic edge with jazzy chord changes and layered instrumentation.[15] "Heaven," from 1987's Bad Animals, benefits from more polished production, smoothing out dated elements to highlight Ann Wilson's soaring delivery in a cleaner, more intimate setting.[15] "Language of Love," sourced from 1983's Passionworks, incorporates added orchestral elements, transforming its pop-rock foundation into a sweeping ballad that enhances thematic resonance across the record, emphasizing tenderness with harmonies and acoustic guitar.[1] "City's Burning," pulled from 1982's Private Audition, receives updates with heavier guitar riffs and strings for richer texture, amplifying its urgent rock drive while preserving the original's fiery urgency.[1] "Down On Me," also from Private Audition (1982), gains a bluesy tone with acoustic textures, reflecting early Heart roots. "One Word," from the same 1982 album, features Latin-inspired percussion and a sultry rhythm, injecting renewed vitality.[15] Overall, these re-recordings underwent modern mixing for greater clarity and a live-feel approach, addressing flaws in the originals like thin-sounding 1980s production through techniques such as layered instrumentation and dynamic balance.[1] Notably, string arrangements by Paul Buckmaster were incorporated on several tracks, providing orchestral swells that elevate the emotional core and ensure seamless integration with the album's new material.[1] This process not only revitalizes the songs but also underscores Beautiful Broken's conceptual focus on redemption and evolution in the band's legacy.Release and promotion
Release details
Beautiful Broken was released on July 8, 2016, by Concord Records, marking the first Heart album under the label after previous releases on Legacy Recordings.[1][16] The album was issued in multiple formats, including standard CD, digital download, limited edition vinyl, and streaming availability.[7][17] The cover artwork depicts abstract imagery symbolizing a broken heart.[7] Concord Records announced the album via press release on June 13, 2016, emphasizing guest contributions from James Hetfield of Metallica and Ne-Yo.[1][18] A full pre-release streaming premiere occurred on Billboard on July 6, 2016.[19] Promotion targeted rock fans through social media teasers of the re-recorded tracks and aligned with Heart's 2016 summer tour, which highlighted the album's "reinvented classics" and was expected to draw half a million attendees with openers Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and Cheap Trick.[1]Singles
The lead single from Beautiful Broken was the title track "Beautiful Broken", released digitally on June 16, 2016, and accompanied by a lyric video featuring the duet vocals of Metallica frontman James Hetfield.[20][21] The song was targeted at rock radio formats to build anticipation for the album's July release.[1] No additional official singles were issued from the album, though the new track "Two"—a cover penned by R&B artist Ne-Yo and featuring lead vocals by Nancy Wilson—is included.[22] Promotion for the singles emphasized digital platforms, including placements on iHeartRadio and Spotify playlists, while tying into Heart's summer 2016 tour dates alongside Joan Jett & the Blackhearts and Cheap Trick.[23]Reception
Critical reception
Beautiful Broken received generally favorable reviews from music critics. According to the review aggregator Metacritic, the album earned a score of 72 out of 100 based on 4 reviews, signifying "generally favorable" reception.[24] Several critics praised the album's reimaginings of earlier material and its blend of fresh and familiar elements. AllMusic rated it 3 out of 5 stars, commending the fresh takes on old songs that revitalized Heart's catalog.[6] Louder Sound awarded 4 out of 5 stars, highlighting the collaboration with James Hetfield on the title track and the overall energy infusing the record.[25] PopMatters gave it 7 out of 10, noting the emotional depth conveyed through the re-recorded tracks, particularly in Ann Wilson's vocal delivery.[26] However, not all feedback was unanimously positive, with some reviewers pointing to limitations in the album's approach. Additional criticisms focused on the new songs occasionally underperforming relative to the band's classic hits, though these were seen as minor drawbacks amid the project's strengths. Across reviews, common themes emerged around the album's polished production and the enduring power of the Wilson sisters' vocals, which were lauded for their raw intensity and timeless appeal. Many viewed Beautiful Broken as a solid return for Heart following a six-year absence from studio albums, successfully bridging their past and present.[24]Commercial performance
Beautiful Broken debuted at number 105 on the US Billboard 200 chart, selling 6,000 equivalent album units in its first week.[27] It also peaked at number 9 on the Top Rock Albums chart.[28] Internationally, the album entered the UK Albums Chart at number 77 and reached number 35 in Scotland.[29] It experienced modest airplay in Canada and Australia without significant chart placement. By the end of 2016, Beautiful Broken had sold around 20,000 copies in the United States, with no major certifications awarded.[4] Its performance was bolstered by ticket sales from the band's accompanying tour, though limited radio play for its singles restricted broader mainstream appeal, confining success primarily to the niche rock audience.[19]Track listing and credits
Track listing
The standard edition of Beautiful Broken contains 10 tracks with a total duration of 40:24. It features three new original songs alongside seven re-recorded versions of tracks from the band's earlier albums.[7]| No. | Title | Writer(s) | Length | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | "Beautiful Broken" | A. Wilson, N. Wilson, Ennis | 2:25 | new (re-recorded from Fanatic deluxe bonus) |
| 2 | "Two" | Ne-Yo, Jesse Wilson, Royal Z | 4:23 | new |
| 3 | "Sweet Darlin'" | A. Wilson, N. Wilson, Ennis | 3:52 | re-record from Bébé le Strange (1980) |
| 4 | "I Jump" | A. Wilson, N. Wilson, Rothchild | 3:52 | new |
| 5 | "Johnny Moon" | A. Wilson, N. Wilson, Ennis | 4:15 | re-record from Passionworks (1983) |
| 6 | "Heaven" | A. Wilson, Ennis, N. Wilson | 5:23 | re-record from Bad Animals (1987) |
| 7 | "City's Burning" | N. Wilson | 3:49 | re-record from Private Audition (1982) |
| 8 | "Down on Me" | A. Wilson, N. Wilson, Ennis | 5:12 | re-record from Bébé le Strange (1980) |
| 9 | "One Word" | N. Wilson | 3:33 | re-record from Private Audition (1982) |
| 10 | "Language of Love" | A. Wilson, Ennis, N. Wilson | 3:34 | re-record from Heart (1985) |