Clutch--Blast Tyrant
The legend continues…
The Packaging:
It is a digi-pak fold out case. It's got demented artwork, which looks like '60's and '70's fantasy stoner posters. The artwork is amazing though. The booklet has the lyrics scribbled as if written in a notebook with a separate picture for each page of the book. It's very high class and detailed. No pictures of the band on this album, which is a change from all their other albums, however a welcomed change due to the dementedly beautiful artwork that graces the entire album.
The Music:
Once again, Clutch can do no wrong. This is a loose concept album although each song is strong enough to stand on its own. The storyline is one you can figure out on your own or read up on interviews with Neil Fallon. The music is well produced, probably Clutch's best produced album. It's got a strong pounding sound and feel. You can hear everything they've got going on. Clutch has reincorporated the Hammond organ on a few tracks and included acoustic guitars on a few numbers as well. This just goes to show that Clutch can expand their music and playing while still remaining faithful to their core audience and vision.
There are many catchy tracks on this album that get stuck in your head on a daily basis, The Mob Goes Wild, Profits of Doom, Worm Drink and Army of Bono are just a few that come to mind, quickly. The album closes with a rocking instrumental, which is a good way for Clutch to go out, jamming… it's what they really do best. This album will not disappoint the Clutch faithful and may pick up a few new Clutch fans given that there is slightly more promotion for this album than the last. However, Clutch has not given up their way of promotion, which is constant touring. Check them out when they hit your town and if they don't this summer, they will in the fall or winter. They leave no stone unturned.
Clutch, in my eyes, can do no wrong. They are a band that has continually expanded their sound without "selling out" or going to far. They always come out rocking and never leave you disappointed. They set a standard for their fans to keep up with and in turn their fans allow them to expand without the worry of Clutch ever going by the wayside.
Buy this album for solid 70's type conceptual groove rock. I hate the term "stoner rock" so I wont use it. Groove works much better for Clutch anyhow.
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Review by Joe