Zero She Flies (1970)

Zero She Flies is a record of poetic storytelling and musical finesse. Al Stewart’s captivating exploration of folk and rock elements continues to blend together well, creating a unique musical experience.

Opening with My Enemies Have Sweet Voices, Stewart immediately sets the tone with his signature warm vocals and intricate guitar work. It has a warm bossa nova-like beginning, the guitar and drums and a folksy harmonica accompaniment creating a unique hybrid of genres. Somehow this blend works, and it is addictive.

Directly after that fantastic opener comes A Small Fruit Song. This song is exactly what it says it is. Clocking in at just over two minutes, Al creates a dramatic acoustic atmosphere carried out through a loving exchange between an apple and an orange. The record has some great guitar instrumentals in Burbling and Room of Roots. The technical ability Al Stewart puts on display here is enthralling. He is truly one of a kind and solidifies himself as a guitar prodigy.

My favorite from the record is Electric Los Angeles Sunset. The fusion of folk and rock elements shines brightly in this track, and the hook is one I can’t get enough of. The guitar cries, the organs soar high, and the drums rock hard. There is not one thing about this song that you could dislike. If you disagree, let’s battle it out in the comment section.

As with the previous record, there are three “bonus” tracks thrown onto the tail end of this one. They don’t necessarily belong here, but for whatever reason, they are. Stormy Night is a gorgeous, calming addition. A mid-tempo acoustic-ish number, backed by a full band and an electric guitar that makes every note count. News from Spain technically doesn’t arrive until the following album, Orange, but a slightly shorter, single version of the track can be found at the end of Zero She Flies. Lastly, Lyke-Wake Dirge, an 1800s British folk song, is performed beautifully. Piano cascading throughout, a folky gospel choir backing Al, and a dramatic energy that feels almost cinematic.

Despite its brilliance, the album has some minor flaws. Occasionally, certain tracks fall short and aren’t entirely memorable. Songs like Manuscript, Black Hill, Anna, and Gethsemane, again don’t quite demand replays. They don’t inspire the way the rest do. Even so, these songs still showcase Al’s musicianship, technical prowess, and storytelling.

Zero She Flies is a journey worth embarking upon. While not without its minor imperfections, the album’s ability to shine is a testament to its enduring appeal. An essential addition to any folk-rock enthusiast’s collection, Zero She Flies stands as a shining example of Al Stewart’s musical brilliance.

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Highlight Songs:

• Electric Los Angeles Sunset

• My Enemies Have Sweet Voices

• Lyke-Wake Dirge

• A Small Fruit Song

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Own it, Stream it, Forget about it?

The folk rock genre of this record should be more universally appealing than Al’s last two. If I say the first two are worth owning for you, then so is this one. If not, you must stream it at least. Some absolutely fantastic music here.

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Overall Rating

4 Stars