Rival Sons – Hollow Bones (CD)

Rival Sons just came out of the woods seven years ago and suddenly became this world wide phenomenon! I’ve seen them live a couple of times and they ARE an outstanding live band. I wasn’t sure if the new album was going to show the band was just a hype, like some other bands. Well, rest assure, the Sons are back with a twist. “Hollow Bones” shows the band putting on a new set of clothes. Sure they are still floating in their classic late 60s Zeppelin juices, but this album shows some really cool diversity, both regarding sounds and songs. The title track, part 1, kicks it off with some cool low octave guitars riffing about, while “Tied Up” sounds like something you’d hear in an old Bond movie, but with a heavy twist. There are some really ugly guitar sounds, which I really love when they melt into the sound and become something good. Like the wooly fuzz octave guitar in “Thundering Voices”. For lack of a more modern word, I’d definitely describe this album as damn groovy! Can’t wait to hear this stuff live. They HAVE done it again!

Janne Stark

Label: Earache

Country: USA

Year: 2016

Motorgun – Motorgun (CD)

Those of you who thought Brazil was only Angra or Sepultura, forget that. Yes, I know there are plenty other bands coming from Brazil, but this is by far the best retro style riff rock band I’ve ever heard from there! The band features guitarist/singer Bebeto Daroz, bassist Edinho and drummer Leo Mello. Fans of bands like King Karma, Badlands, Pride And Glory and Black Water Rising should definitely check this unit out. The album kicks off with the close to 7 minutes epic ”Heading For Tomorrow” where the band instantly kicks into heavy riff mode and Bebto proves he’s not only an outstanding guitarist, but also a class A singer! ”Rebel Souls” continues in a Pride And Glory southern drop-D style heavy crunch vein. This is catchy, groove oriented and heavy as fuck! Bebeto perfectly balances between bluesy licks and technical runs, without it becoming show-off. ”Back To Ashes” bursts in like a raging steamroller, but with a cool melodic chorus that gives the song a new layer, while ”Deliverance” has a cool slightly psychedelic touch to it. I won’t get into each song. Basically because all of the songs are frickin’ awesome! Not a single filler! Not a weak moment! Together with the new Crobot, top of the class of 2016!

Janne Stark

Label: Grooveyard

Country: Brazil

Year: 2016

Black Mountain Prophet – Tales From The South (CD)

A smoky joint, people sipping beers and bobbing their heads to the groove coming from band in the corner. That’s the picture I see when I hear opening track “Feel Good Mama”. I really liked the band’s debut album, but on this one they’ve really dug down deep to find the true southern roots. Jarrod England handles lead vocals, rhythm/lead/slide guitars and harmonica, Bob Watkins plays rhythm/lead guitar, Brian Witty handles the bass and Chris Hardesty sits behind the drums. I’ve always had a weak spot for Jarrod’s raspy bluesy voice ever since I heard the outstanding Rufus Huff album. The production is very earthy, analogue and organic with lot of room in the drum sound, which I love. Tales From The South may not be as heavy as the band’s debut, but this one has a different feel with other qualities appealing to other sides of my musical taste buds. “Whiskey Don’t Make Me Cry” is very cool and laid back, with a touch of vintage Allman Brothers meets Skynyrd and a touch of Americana. It’s a very naked album, sounding like you’re actually IN the room together with the band. Even though I know Jarrod can’t sing, play rhythm guitar, slide and harmonica at the same time, it sure does sound like he does. Well, I do stand corrected - the album was recorded 95 % live in the studio, I'm informed, one track even totally live. Reacording live in the studio is a dying artform, which should be encouraged! Well done, boys!  “Milk Skin Woman” actually gave me a touch of another band I really love, Swamp Cabbage. “Bad Women” brings in a bit of the funk vibe also found on the Rufus Huff album. Jarrod sings this so damn good! There’s so much feel in his voice, it feels like he’s literally singing his heart out. All in all, different from what I expected, but really good different! Love it!

Janne Stark

Label: Grooveyard

Country: USA

Year: 2016