CD Reviews
Blacktop Mojo “Under The Sun” Album Review
In the world of hard rock there is a magical land that lies somewhere between Guns ‘N Rosesand Soundgarden. Blacktop Mojo lives and thrives in this magical land. A balls to the wall hard rock approach with grungy groove oriented riffs and a vocalist that can channel the spirits of both Chris Cornell & Ronnie Van Zant.
Their third full length album, Under The Sun, is a shining look at where hard rock has come from and where it can go into the future. The album kicks off with the track “Lay it On Me” with driving drums that build up to a driving rock riff that catches the head bobbing grooves while setting the tone for the album. Which flows into the second track “Set it Free” which clearly shows off their Soundgardeninfluences. Lyrical content seems to tackle common ideas and emotions that one faces with life, love, loss, and regret.
While while the band definitely comes across as cohesive and skilled with the writing, showcasing their versatility with the mid-tempo single “Can’t Sleep” and the hard rockin blues fueled “It Won’t Last” the real standout performance on the album belongs to vocalist Matt James who’s soulful and wailing vocals repeatedly steal the show track after track. There are elements on this album that any fan of rock or metal should be able to find enjoyment from.
This is one album that I highly recommend, especially on a day you can put your windows down and drive fast. Standout tracks: “Can’t Sleep” “Come Get Your Coat” and “Set it Free”
The album drops on September 13th and will be available at all of the usual distribution outlets.
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CD Reviews
BUSH 30th ANNIVERSARY OF “SIXTEEN STONE” VINYL
I remember when this album came out in 1994 . I was 15 and really discovering all types of music. As being a typical teenage boy I seen the band name “Bush” and thought hmm I love bush, let’s check it out. It was such an amazing album from beginning to end.
The new released vinyl that just came out on November 17th is such a testament to this album being as great then as it is now. Listening to the vinyl just brought back so many memories of being an angst teenager that just wanted to heard. The vinyl package is amazing with lots of photos of the band throughout the years and the sound of the vinyl is so pristine.
I got my hands on the opaque red vinyl and just looks awesome spinning on the player. It’s crazy to think that this album has so many hits and no filler songs, even the songs that didn’t become hits are just as good as the hits.
With the hits being “Glycerine”, “Everything Zen” , “Comedown” “Little Things” and “Machinehead” but some of my favorite songs are not the hits songs like “Swim”, “Bomb” and “Alien” which is probably my favorite song on the album. If you’re a fan of Bush or this album or just want to dive into the mid 90s Grunge/Post Grunge era this is a key album to have in your collection.
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ALICE IN CHAINS “BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE” VINYL REVIEW
Alice In Chains have Re-Released the 2009 album on vinyl. This album was the first Alice In Chains in 14 years and the first album with guitarist/singer Willam DuVall after Layne Staley passed away in 2002.
I was a huge Alice In Chains fan and was a big fan of both Layne and Jerry. When this album first came out I remember sorta pushing it the side only cause of sadness about Layne but after hearing “Check My Brain” I gave it a chance and was so glad that I did. This album is amazing and really put Alice In Chains back into the mainstream.
The vinyl not only looks super awesome but sounds amazing. If you’re a fan of Alice In Chains and into collecting Vinyl, this album is a must in your collection. It’s a great packed vinyl with 2 vinyls included.
Side A: All Secrets Known, Check My Brain and Last of My Kind. Side B: Your Decision, A Looking in View. Side C: When The Sun Rose Again, Acid Bubble, Lesson Learned. Side D: Take Her Out, Private Hell, Black Gives Away To Blue
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VENDED: Album Review
9/20/24 sees the independent release of the full-length, self-titled debut album from Des Moines, Iowa natives Vended. Featuring vocalist Griffin Taylor, Simon Crahan on drums, Jeremiah Pugh on bass, Cole Espland on lead guitar, and Connor Grodzicki on rhythm guitar.
On this album they have taken more abrasive elements of nu metal as seen in the late 90s from bands like Slipknot and Soulfly and utilized elements of metalcore to slap a fresh coat of paint on the style. There are elements that remind me of the more modern and spastic styles of nu metal, similar to a band like Tallah.
Griffin’s vocal styling showcases mid-range screams as the main driving force bending the vocals. True to the nu metal elements, the rage and anger perceived from the screams are offset by the occasional catchy riff or fast talking, almost rapping stylized lyrics.
Crahan shows an impressive command of rhythm with his double bass drum. Driving each track forward with a machine gun-like purpose, which makes the more groove-oriented parts hit much harder. Crahan, in addition to the rest of the rhythm section (Espland and Pugh), all really work together well to keep the momentum moving forward while not sacrificing said groove.
While I wouldn’t call it album of the year or anything. It’s definitely worth checking out. Standout tracks: “Nihilism” and “The Far Side”.
Vended can be found on the usual socials. And the album is available on all streaming platforms. And physical copies can be purchased though https://www.officialvended.com
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