Howard Leese - Secret Weapon
www.howardleese.com

Rating: B+

Howard Leese has often been called Heart's secret weapon, so the title of his solo CD is very fitting.  It is also fitting that Howard invite some damn talented singers along for the ride.  While Ann and Nancy are nary to be found anywhere, Leese's new boss, Paul Rodgers, sings on the poignant "Heal the Broken Hearted."  Joe Lynn Turner, of Rainbow fame, opens the album off with "Alive Again" and while the song is sure to remind one of "Wanted Dead or Alive" by Bon Jovi, the song is well written and features some amazing underplayed guitar.  Every time you think Howard is going to cut loose and let 'er rip, he falls back and plays a Clapton like smooth solo that fits better than anything one could have imagined.

Turner sings a duet with Rock Star INXS star Deena Johnson on "Hot to Cold."  This song is the most mainstream rock song on the record and the two vocalists playing angry lovers comes across as humorous.  While the vocalists are interesting, when Howard shuts up and plays his guitar is when the album really shines.  "33 West Street," performed with guitar maker Paul Reed Smith is a great tune with a wonderful jazz/rock flavor.  "Vermilion Border" is a wordless love song that sees Leese pushing his limits of soulful, inspirational songwriting. 

The best tune on the CD features Spinal Tap's Duke Fame, AKA Paul Shortino from Ruff Cutt.  "The South Summit" is Leese's tribute to the songwriting style of Robin Trower.  The song swoons and sways, both lovingly and with the power of an impending thunderstorm.  Shortino sounds amazing and Howard plays his ass off.

The album has not hit the streets yet, so keep checking back at www.howardleese.com and when you see it offered, snap it up.  This is music written for music's own sake. The purity, sensibility and power of rock, jazz and the blues comes across loud and clear.  This one is winner. 

n       Jeb Wright