Stevie Nicks: Bella Donna

Stevie Nicks' solo debut received Rhino Record's "High Fidelity" treatment with a numbered edition limited to 5,000 copies, followed by an unnumbered pressing for wider availability. Kevin Gray's remaster, cut from the original analog master tapes at Cohearent Audio, delivers a polished and detailed presentation of this 1981 classic.

The pressing quality from Optimal Media is excellent. Surfaces are dead quiet, allowing the detail in Jimmy Iovine's production to shine through. Nicks' vocals are front and center, particularly effective on "Edge of Seventeen" where her phrasing and the atmospheric keyboard work from Benmont Tench come through with impressive clarity. The duets with Tom Petty on "Stop Draggin' My Heart Around" and Don Henley on "Leather and Lace" benefit from the clean mastering, with both voices occupying their own space in the mix.

Gray's work emphasizes vocal presence and upper end detail, which suits the material well. The bass is solid and well defined, though some listeners may find the drums sit further back in the mix than they'd prefer. This appears to be faithful to the original production rather than a mastering choice, as the album has always prioritized vocals and melodic elements over rhythm section punch.

The tip-on gatefold packaging is gorgeous, with Herbert Worthington's iconic photography looking sharp and vibrant. The fourpage booklet and insert with liner notes from Bob Mehr add context without feeling like filler. The only recurring complaint worth noting is that the tight fit of the inner sleeves can make getting the record in and out more challenging than it should be, a packaging issue that affects several titles in this series.

For collectors deciding between this and other available pressings, the Rhino High Fidelity version offers a polished, detailed presentation at a reasonable price point. It may not have the absolute warmth of some analog cuts, but it's a strong representation of the album that serves both casual fans and those seeking improved sonics over earlier CD era pressings.

The Vinyl Verdict
A beautifully presented reissue that captures the magic of Nicks' breakthrough solo album. Highly recommended for fans and a worthy addition to the Rhino High Fidelity catalog. 💵

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