![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzemJJatC2Gol6QTCkITTLAvdg6OVyx8LsSwMe7qlQihr1WRcC4ZtZxSM74iimMO6tg1s_ATkc2C5l2pKxYBktFOENaUnbac6dd_bGa-MzTQ4IvbVV51DO0yi-SxI_Ph8rkbrLxlre0B0/s1600/black+stone+cherry.jpg)
Since their self-titled debut, the
band have solidly enhanced their hard rock repertoire, along with successful
tours with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Whitesnake, Alter Bridge and Bad Company and
prominent appearances at the Download festival, Black Stone Cherry have earned
a devout following across the UK and US. Regarding their third release, Between the Devil and the
Deep Blue Sea, many argued they had swapped their unique sound and focused on a
radio-friendly approach. To quote a favourite term from music fans, it was
disputed that they had “sold out.” That said, Magic Mountain musically is much
closer to their first two albums. Reminiscing that harder-edged rock sound that
won them much praise earlier on in their music careers, the sound in BSC’s
latest release, is very similar. Equivalent to what was probably expected from
their fans, more importantly, the album is just as entertaining to listen to as
their first two offerings.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4N-BOeKUFDQ9Y4_fFTJpqOhgzAHCQQY54SjxullFzCzg4sdos_lxrGoiWB2LdfcIQ0wiiKhG70mCtqg1kpAWOTNMMXR1nhRkvaok8Qwk0r9GdlDvOMw5kF15IZEgeobpAnOeRPAxITiM/s1600/Black+Stone+Cherry+2014+058-2+Lo+Res+%C2%A9+Ash+Newell+Photography.jpg.jpeg)
Though Magic Mountain is an
impressive effort, the album does have its flaws, which in turn prevents it
from matching or bettering BSC’s first two records. Once the 13-song
compilation is concluded, it feels certain songs should not have been featured
and that more focus should have been paid in seeing a far more accomplished
package of songs constructed. The title track of the album is a weak link,
suffering from repetitive song structuring and bedlamite lyrics and lacking artistic
merit. If it was an extra or a B-side track then it would probably go
unnoticed, however the title track of an album of this magnitude should be far
stronger and more imaginative then “Magic Mountain.” “Hollywood in Kentucky”
and “Dance Girl” are also examples of BSC losing slight focus on constructive
and original song writing. Both tracks incorporate stereotypical and at times
futile lyrics, disappointing considering the band’s usual erudite and polished
core on lyric writing.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtKFuDdIa5PtLBeu07oxR-DabS1PaUkLddEZ1IzvGCwq99RSPZDdfBwEFZCewIJh2bceEgawwo2WKIDTSOZuqaVSffWqLC1kQgVMEmQd5pQiensElgDPzyzN6gR48yj1n1BoOjSgzC29o/s1600/bsc.jpg)
Despite this, BSC’s fourth album is
a welcome return to form from a quartet very much assured in their continued
presence within the 21st Century’s selection of hard rock acts. The
record showcases the band members at the peak of their playing abilities. Chris
Robertson’s vocals throughout Magic Mountain are as dominant as always, proving
why he is currently one of the best in the business. Ben Wells on rhythm guitar
adds to the great dexterity of BSC’s riff-making process and provides an
excellent backup to Robertson’s lead playing. On bass, Jon Lawhon, is as
prominent as ever, just like in previous albums, his lusty and resounding
grooves really power the music to a greater level. Drummer John Fred Young,
BSC’s secret weapon with his belligerent, aggressive and masterful force behind
the kit, comprehensively induces all elements of the heavy rock genre that
Black Stone Cherry lives and breathes by. Magic Mountain might not be the
band’s landmark album that will empower them into rock and roll history, though
it is still an excellent attempt from a band continuing to elicit powerful and
enjoyable rock music to fans of this genre. Black Stone Cherry are better than
most modern acts in displaying their own character and distinctive nature
within their music and Magic Mountain is no different. Notably enlisting
passion, depth and full-force rock and roll from start to finish, BSC’s latest
instalment, though not defining their evolving legacy, will certainly help to
prolong it.
No comments:
Post a Comment