Sari Schorr – Running Wild: Another Year, Another Level

Review By Glen Parkes

Some artists get better with age. Others simply become more comfortable doing what they have always done. Then there is Sari Schorr, who seems determined to keep pushing herself forward every time she steps onto a stage or walks into a recording studio.

Running Wild is the latest chapter in a career that has taken Schorr from the rock clubs of New York City to international stages and a celebrated collaboration with Robin Trower. It is also an album that feels personal, powerful and completely authentic.

I had the pleasure of meeting Sari at Maid of Stone Festival, and what struck me immediately was what a genuinely nice lady she was. There was no ego, no distance, just a warm and engaging person who clearly loves what she does. Then she walked onto that stage and absolutely commanded it. Watching her perform, you quickly understand why she has built such a reputation. She owns the stage, owns the audience and delivers every song with an intensity that is impossible to ignore.

And the great thing is, she just keeps getting better and better every year.

That progression is all over Running Wild. Opening with “Mr. In The Middle”, Schorr tackles the push-and-pull of a relationship where attraction is strong but commitment is missing. It is a powerful introduction, combining soulful vocals with classic rock muscle.

The title track, “Running Wild”, captures the album’s central idea of freedom, resilience and refusing to be held back. “Monday Morning” and “Man On Fire” continue that journey, with Schorr moving effortlessly between vulnerability and outright fire.

“Cool Hand Rider” brings another change of pace, while “Elevate” lives up to its name with an uplifting energy. “Call It Freedom” feels particularly important, reflecting Schorr’s belief in trusting your instincts and letting go of judgement.

There is also genuine emotional depth here. “Better Day” carries the promise that brighter times can follow difficult ones, while “Afterglow” allows Schorr to explore a softer, more reflective side. “Finding My Way” then brings the album towards a fitting conclusion, sounding like both a statement and a continuing journey.

Schorr’s voice remains the weapon at the centre of everything. She can deliver a full-blooded rock performance one minute and then turn around and break your heart with a quieter lyric the next. Those influences from Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, Billie Holiday, Bessie Smith and Ma Rainey remain woven into her music, alongside blues, soul, jazz and classic rock.

With Jamie Walker, Luke Paget and Bennett Holland helping shape the musical landscape, Running Wild sounds like the work of an artist who knows exactly where she wants to go.

Sari Schorr has never been an artist to stand still, and thankfully, she shows no signs of starting now.

If anything, Running Wild proves that she is still running wild, still taking chances and, incredibly, still getting better.