Sammy Hagar & Friends

Sammy Hagar & Friends is a record on which Sammy Hagar, with varied guests, lines up the appeal of hard rock, blues and melodic rock without strain. The faces and textures change from song to song, yet an open voice and a cheerful groove connect the whole album into one. It is a record full of an air of truly enjoying collaboration with friends. From the relaxed flavor of “Winding Down” and an unexpected cover of Depeche Mode’s “Personal Jesus” to Bob Seger’s “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man” and Jimmy Buffett’s “Margaritaville,” the very selection tells of his broad musical tastes and friendships. An air that foregrounds the fun of playing with friends over showing off technique wraps the whole pleasantly. Within an atmosphere like a free, unforced session, Sammy’s sure appeal as a vocalist breathes. It is a record that lets you savor rock and roll’s freedom and warmth, and the fun of connection between people, directly. Full of a veteran’s ease and playfulness, it is an approachable, fulfilling work.