Higher Truth

Getting in touch with his folkier side has paid off for Chris Cornell on Higher Truth—a showcase of the Soundgarden frontman's peerless voice set against a mostly acoustic backdrop. He’s pensive and tender over Nick Drake-style guitars on “Through the Window,” and digs in deep with his impassioned howl on gentle rocker “Worried Moon.” But for a real taste of Cornell’s versatility as a songwriter, check out the tuneful melodies he strings together on the beautiful title track and the album’s centerpiece, “Nearly Forgot My Broken Heart."