(BMG)
“Can you hear me through the white noise?”
Loud n’ clear gentlemen. The duality of darkness and light shines on the second offering from the union of Iron Maiden’s Adrian Smith and Richie Kotzen. Black Light / White Noise is a masterpiece of guitar playing.
The duo shares vocal duties with Adrian bringing the blues-laced grit and Kotzen the soul and Chris Cornell flavor. Their guitar chemistry is off the charts, playing off one another through tracks brandishing blues, ‘70s/’90s rock, with glimpses of jazz and R&B. There is also a definite layer of heaviness heard throughout with the guitars possessing more bite.
Just check out that doomy underneath riff that accompanies the solo in the brilliant blues-based “Wraith”. They sound comfortable and confident like in the Smith led Western lawman inspired “Darkside”, the rocking funk of opener “Muddy Water”, and the mash of funky rhythm and ‘70s groove in “Black Light” about a troublesome woman.
The guys let loose on “Life Unchained” – a certified up-tempo rocker while the groove in “Blindsided” reminds of Velvet Revolver. The laid-back, motorcycle, wind-to-the-back “Outlaw” seems to stick in the head the most with its main guitar melody. Plus that closing outro guitar solo is godly.
Kotzen does his Prince impression in 7-minute closer “Beyond The Pale” with emotive playing and vocal gymnastics regretting a failed relationship. The only cut that fails to click is the awkward chorus to “Heavy Weather”. The clunky and wistful chorus does not match the defiant, beating tone of the verses.
Take a close listen to the intricacies of their guitar playing and the huge wall of sound present. The bass is there with a thick bottom end and accompanies a workmanlike effort behind the kit – not flashy, but serving the song.
Considering how long these guys have been in the game, this record is a fresh, vibrant dose of hard rock that will deservedly earn end of year recognition.
Rating: 8.5
Source: bravewords.com
