Back catalogue: Rock

Review: Linda Ronstadt's Cry Like A Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind marks her return to pop with grandeur and power. Backed by a stellar lineup of session musicians, including Aaron Neville, Ronstadt delivers a collection of 12 quality songs by esteemed songwriters. The album's magnitude is evident in its lush orchestration and powerful arrangements, courtesy of the Skywalker Symphony Orchestra and the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. While the grand scale occasionally overshadows Ronstadt's vocals, her refined phrasing and vocal prowess shine through, particularly in her duets with Neville. Engineer George Massenburg's impeccable recording work elevates the album to near perfection, capturing every instrument with clarity and balance. Cry Like A Rainstorm not only heralds Ronstadt's return to pop/rock but also showcases her remarkable musical development, making it a strong contender for the best album of 1989.