Like stepping in from the cold to find a warm fireplace and your favourite blanket. The new album, Shine On, by Sarah McLachlan is the musical equivalent of getting re-acquainted with an old friend. Filled with her distinctive and glistening vocals that have been off the airways for far too long. In fact this album has been six years in the making.
For many this album has been a long wait, mainly due to life getting in the way. After six years filled with change including a divorce, documented on 2010 album Laws of Illusion, the death of her father after a long battle with cancer, and leaving her longtime label and management team at Nettwerk, the Canadian songstress was ready for a fresh beginning. McLachlan recently stated she had to really think about redefining herself and her life after so much change.
Produced by longtime creative partner Pierre Marchand, Shine On is much more direct than any of her previous albums. McLachlan speaks up and seems to have found her own voice, as the songs are open, revealing and much less symbolic.
The opening track “In Your Shoes” sets the tone for the album with an up-beat pop-rock vibe that speaks to the inner-strength of women. The lyrics are direct and anthemic with a very catchy chorus, ready for radio play. This song also has a deeper meaning with an anti-bullying message and was inspired the story of Pakistani teenager Malala Yousafzai. “Flesh and Blood” is another rockier track which begins with a propulsive guitar intro before pulling back again to more elegantly feature her vocals as she sings of re-igniting passions.
Avid fans of her slower more angelic works won’t be disappointed either. There are a few tender piano ballads with her elusive ethereal sound. “Broken Heart” is a perfect example of this whilst still highlighting her new directness. “Surrender and Certainty” captures her unique familiar sound, with the added benefit of languorous horns, with a sound almost like Norah Jones.
Song “For My Father” and “Surrender And Certainty” both address mortality after her father’s death in 2010. Her mother passed away in 2001, so she suddenly found herself without either parent. Despite the potentially morbid topics both songs are full of hope and enduring spirit.
Still working with Pierre Marchand means McLachlan’s signature glimmer and shimmering sound are still present. Marchand has been working with McLachlan since 1991’s Solace. However, McLachlan did veer off the usual path by bringing in Bob Rock (Metallica) to helm “Flesh And Blood” and another atmospheric rock piece entitled “Love Beside Me”. McLachlan said she wanted to try something completely new, and really connected with Rock, but still needed Marchand for the quiet, introspective pieces.
This album is a beautiful and reflective tribute to the power of hope, life and love. Obviously the tumultuous experiences and changes have only made her voice stronger, clearer and sweeter.
Review Score : 8.5 out of 10. 
Shine On is McLachlan’s eighth studio album and was released May 6, via her new label Verve.
