Here To Snuff The Rooster... Again

Thrash had its "Big Four"; Metallica, Megadeth, Slayer and Anthrax. One could argue that grunge had a big four as well; Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden and Alice In Chains. Pearl Jam is the only remaining band that continues to put out albums of consistent quality. Soundgarden broke up in 1997 and have faded into obscurity (however a reunion tour is in the making). Nirvana and Alice in Chains disbanded following the deaths of their front men; Kurt Cobain and Layne Staley. I think it is safe to say we will never see a Nirvana reunion as Dave Grohl has gone on to form a little known band called the Foo Fighters (okay, maybe not "little known" as the Foo Fighters have won 6 Grammy's in the 2000s) and no one would be able to replace Kurt Cobain as he was the primary songwriter and needless to say a legend. Layne Staley was the voice of Alice In Chains and not many people would be able to replace his undeniable presence in the band. However, Jerry Cantrell was the primary songwriter and obviously had more material to let loose. Low and behold, AIC released "Black Gives Way To Blue" last fall. Jerry found his voice in William DuVall. The good thing is AIC have not tried to replace Mr. Staley, as that would be impossible, however they were able to maintain their trademark sound with a voice that is scary similar to Layne's. "Black Gives Way To Blue" is easily their best album since 1994s brilliant "Jar of Flies". The songs on this album are very reminiscent to those on "JOF" and 1992s "Dirt". The tracks 'All Secrets Known', 'Check My Brain' and 'Acid Bubble' could have been lifted from "Dirt". And 'When The Sun Rose Again' and the self-titled track would have fit perfectly on "Jar Of Flies". The album gets better and better on repeated listens and actually brings you back to AIC's early 90s pinnacle. For those who loved the grunge hay day, purchase this album. None of you will be sorry.



Rating: Good on first listen, Fantastic now on over a dozen spins (too many 4 of 5 ratings on this blog)

Choice tracks: 'When The Sun Rose Again', 'Black Gives Way To Blue', 'All Secrets Known'