Review: Ana Popovic ‘Power’

Review: Ana Popovic ‘Power’

By Brendan Fitzpatrick

Internationally renowned guitarist Ana Popovic is embraced by the upper tier of the blues rock community. Playing at that level comes with pressure to deliver the goods, which she has met time and again. There is no shortage of guitarists that can deliver outstanding playing, however, to maintain it for over a quarter century is rare and it’s one of the many reasons Popovic continues to enjoy the success she deserves. She is an eight-time Blues Music Award Nominee and has appeared on the covers of Guitar Player and Vintage Guitar Magazine. She has proven to be a force within the guitar community.

In the fall of 2020 and during the pandemic, Ana was diagnosed with breast cancer, leaving her to question whether she should continue in music at all. Fortunately for the fans, her musical director and bassist Buthel, convinced her that they had work to do and that she needed to continue down the road she was born to travel. Between 14 chemotherapy sessions, the two of them connected on Zoom to write the material for her new album Power while she continued to tour–an undeniable testament to her strength and commitment to the music.

Ana says, “So, needless to say this record brought my spirit the salvation it needed, and ultimately, the music and my ’64 Fender Stratocaster saved my life. I’m convinced now more than ever that guitars CAN save lives.”

Popovic’s Power, slated to be released on May 5th via ArtisteXclusive Records, is an 11 song effort that reflects her personal journey during this chapter in her life. It’s about empowerment, love, and pushing through to grab what she came here for–to live life to it’s fullest and continue as one of the best guitar players/performers in the world. The band rolls through the genre-bending set with confidence and grace, their stamp on each diverse track. It has elements found in contemporary groove-based jazz while simultaneously rooted in late 70s funk-infused pop. At times, it touches the edge of blues rock.

Produced by Popovic and Buthel, Power begins with a slinky shuffle called “Rise Up,” a blend of early 70s Motown and Steely Dan. It’s mature and funky with interesting production that’s polished, the layers effective.

For fans of blues music, “Strong Taste” delivers a classic boogie blues with more than a pinch of pop sensibility. Although musically the band is digging into a straight blues groove, Ana finds a way to sell it with a modern flare.

Using the blues as a foundation to create her own sound, Popovic blends rock, jazz, R&B and funk into many of the tracks, as is her trademark style.

“Turn My Luck” starts with strings that quickly yield to a stomp and clap beat accompanied by acoustic slide guitar. The vocal is strong, soulful and drenched in confidence. In a different time with a more primitive approach, this would be right at home on a Son House record. It has elements of gospel, blues, pop and grease. Grease is one of those elements in music that cannot be taught, however it can be learned. Clearly this outfit has done their homework.

Another standout is the gutsy blues rocker “Flicker N’ Flame.” By far the grittiest cut on the record, it hints of “Fire” by Jimi Hendrix, with the driving drums that never seem to get in the way of the song. So few drummers can pocket an approach like this, but Chris Coleman is clearly one of them.

Power is a celebration of survival and triumph over seemingly insurmountable challenges. Ana Popovic stayed true to herself as an artist, committed to her journey as one of the most celebrated guitarists/performers. Equal parts diversity and hope, the musicianship is top tier. A victory.

“Turn My Luck”