America. A country like no other, sprawling open roads, stunning vistas and some of the best Rock ‘n’ Roll the world has to offer. In keeping with this characteristic, Blackberry Smoke release their brand new album Like an Arrow merely a year after their previous effort Holding All The Roses. Wanting a slower outlook on life we enter the real America with these Georgians.
[tracklist]
- Waiting For The Thunder
- Let It Burn
- The Good Life
- What Comes Naturally
- Running Through Time
- Like an Arrow
- Ought To Know
- Sunrise In Texas
- Ain’t Gonna Wait
- Workin’ For A Workin’ Man
- Believe You Me
- Free On The Wing (Feat. Gregg Allman)
[/tracklist][details]
[length]49:00[/length]
[record_label]Earache Records[/record_label]
[release_date]October 14th 2016[/release_date]
[/details]
The aural equivalent of Jack Daniels whiskey, Blackberry Smoke are in want of a simple life. The drowsy guitar lines of “The Good Life” echo an ideal of a simple, quiet life no doubt well practiced by the more obscure corners of the states. Keeping their foot both in Classic Rock pool whilst flirting with the likes of America’s one true love, Country. The appropriately titled “Sunrise In Texas” brings this marriage together to create a warm, welcoming tone whilst being relatable for those in wanton of a quieter life, despite the band belting these out in venues much larger than the classic dive down the road.
The nostalgia inducing tones of “Free On The Wing” featuring the guitar aptitutde of Greg Allman, again retain the air of the simplistic. Lyrics a la Randy Newman, simple yet relatable creating a direct message that will no doubt be more relatable. However its not all just relaxing on the porch, the boot stompin’ anthem of “Waiting For The Thunder” brings more of an energetic boost into the band’s repertoire giving them the possibility to be linked to Lynyrd Skynyrd just as much as the current Black Keys. Clouding over on title track “Like An Arrow” brings murky bass tones to the fore making for a moody atmosphere before the clouds clear in a hook laden chorus.
“Ought To Know” brings the wistful blow of the winds of youth back in a semi chastising manner. Once again proving their aptitude at both the ability of Country sounds “Workin’ For A Workin’ Man” brings back the sense of the common man. Ultimately relatable, Blackberry Smoke brings the ethos of the real America into the modern day. Taking notes from the likes of Classic Rock heroes whilst carving their own whiskey soaked, lazy afternoon lounging sound. No readers of a heavier disposition might not like what they hear but if you’re after some good time Classic Rock, Blackberry Smoke once again hit a home run.
[verdict]Yes[/verdict]
[why]Chanelling their inner 70’s Rock, Blackberry Smoke bring forward yet another tall tale of Rock ‘n’ Roll swagger in the form of Like An Arrow. Seeing them no doubt soar higher than ever before.[/why]
If you like what you read / heard then you can pick up a copy of the brand new album here!
