A step in a new direction
Change is Cindy Wilson’s first full-length album as a solo artist, but listeners may recognize her as a member of The B-52s. While the popular new wave band is celebrating their 40th anniversary as a group, Wilson has taken the time to focus in on her individual sound, and the final product is a 10-track album oozing with a mix of psychedelic funk and an ethereal coolness.
Although clearly experienced and not new to the scene, Wilson has taken a modern approach to Change she is unfamiliar with. She describes the work as being in “a whole different world” from The B-52s and that she has been enjoying learning from the new era of musicians.
The pace of the album ebbs and flows through every track. “People Are Asking” starts off the album with a soft, angelic rock sound. Wilson’s voice itself has a ‘70s and ‘80s aura, matching perfectly with the psych-pop undertones of “Stand Back Time.” Her way of singing the lyrics is almost whispered, which perfectly highlights the calming quality of her voice. “No One Can Tell You” introduces a synthesized disco atmosphere to the album which persists through “Change” and “Mystic,” an electric high point of the album.
Even so, each track maintains an airy spirit. “Things I’d Like to Say” carries an uplifting yet relaxing mood, and the sound further softens with “Sunrise.” The pace begins to pick up again with “On the Inside,” which showcases a soft funk atmosphere. “Brother” is alternative rock track that ramps up with heavy drum and guitar — a highlight piece of the album. The record eventually closes with “Memory,” a gentle and chilling track.
Change’s title is appropriate, as it represents a shift in Wilson’s career she fully embraces. She finds that much of the thrill is in the journey of making new music, especially since the making of this record is so different from her previous work. Wilson looks forward to continuing the adventure by making future solo records.
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