Desiree Cannon - Radio Heat

With her sophomore effort, Radio Heat, Desiree Cannon continues her exploration into the dimensions of human emotion. A brave collection that works to transform grief into everlasting beauty, Radio Heat continues to build on Cannon’s profound skill as a songwriter and one-of-a-kind visionary.

Much of the album was recorded on a hilltop in Big Sur, allowing Cannon to step away from the chaos of life and fully center herself during each song's development. This decision guides the gorgeous, atmospheric production, creating a calming sense of acceptance as Cannon strives to find joy amidst life's tragedies.

The rhythmic lull of ‘Faultline’ aptly softens Cannon’s frank proclamation, “Darling, I’m sorry I can’t be the one to walk you to the moon”, making a parting of ways feel almost celebratory. Meanwhile, diaristic ‘Chimes’ details observations of dark, natural elements lightened with a kaleidoscope Laurel Canyon sound. Cannon packs a lovelorn doo-wop punch with ‘Tower’ and ‘Baby’, delivering a set of soul-stirring vocals that sound less like vintage-inspired pieces and more like unearthed recordings from decades gone by.

The cosmic splendor of “Goodnight Texas” propels her heartbroken pleas for unanswered questions into celestial spaces, though she is at her most lyrically insightful on the sorrowful but firmly empowered ‘Latigo.’ “You will wonder where I’ve gone and go crazy knowing why,” she sings with fierce understanding, bringing the song to staggering heights.

Cannon’s unfiltered observations and raw autonomy in the creative process make Radio Heat a deeply meaningful experience that lingers, begging the listener to find beauty in life's heartbreak.

8/10

Desiree Cannon’s 2024 project, Radio Heat, is available now via Gar Hole Records/Long Road Society.