I’ve been following Swedish modern rockers
Clark Lane for quite some time, and now they have finally released their debut
album. The name is, if you may wonder, made up of the combination of Clark Kent
and Louis Lane. If you’re into bands like Corroded, Alter Bridge and Shinedown
this one’s definitely for you. Heavy riffing mixed with nice melodies with intelligent
pop overtones at times. However, they are not by far as predictable as
Nickelback, and way better in my opinion. They are also not as musically buttery
as, for instance, Takida, and they definitely have more substance in their
songs. Clark Lane also has a great guitar player, which many of the modern
sounding bands lack. Songs like “Voices” and “Departure” also show the unique
quirky touch this band has, and that I love. It’s not your standard strumming
chord patterns, but harmonies that set them apart from the mainstream, but are
not too quirky to scare away the non-musician listener. It’s a fine line, but these
guys know their balancing act well. There’s also a really nice variety in the
songs, from powerful balladry to up-tempo rockers, and lots in-between. One of
my favourites is the heavy, riff-oriented and quirky, but still very melodic
“Backdoor”, but there are honestly several favourites on this album! Highly
recommended.
Janne Stark
Year: 2015
Country: Sweden
Label: self-released
Link: www.clarklane.se
