Sully Erna

Avalon

Written by: PP on 17/12/2010 06:53:00

The name Sully Erna might ring a bell to some of you readers. He happens to be the long-standing vocalist and primary songwriter for nu-metal band Godsmack, who produced a couple of seminal albums in the genre ("Godsmack", "Awake") about a decade ago or so, before they suffered the same fate as so many of their colleagues shortly after: almost complete loss of relevancy to the music industry. That didn't stop the band from releasing three new albums, the latest one of which was released earlier this year ("The Oracle"). Don't worry if you're as stupefied as me that they're still around, after all, their only unique selling point ever was the inclusion of tribal drum patterns and atmosphere creating a mood that one could associate with the darkest and deepest realms of central Africa.

So what more, then, could he possibly offer on his debut solo album that has been under works for over seven years now? Apparently, more of the same, only in a slightly modified context. The tribal melodies from Godsmack's material are omnipresent, which isn't surprising considering he is the primary songwriter in the band, but as a whole the approach is a lot softer. Granted, I haven't heard the last couple of Godsmack albums (because who honestly listens to Godsmack in 2010? Jesus christ), but from what I remember, their past albums were full of pseudo-heavy nu-metal riffs and hard rock semi-rough yells. None of that is to be found here. Instead, string arrangements, bongo drums (an assumption, don't hang me if I'm wrong), and other unconventional elements are attached to the music. The focus is placed strongly on the earlier mentioned tribal atmosphere, brought to life through the unusual drum textures and acoustic guitars. A song like "Broken Road" is excellent, a heartfelt ballad with an empowering chorus, and the didgeridoo/tribal flute in "My Light" is a nice touch.

However, the album as a whole is plagued by largely the same problems as nearly every other major label rock album in the last few years. There is intense spotlight on a couple of single-worthy, ready-for-the-radio hits that are supposed to carry the album on their own. There's a ton of filler here that can only be described as bland, boring, and generic. Not necessarily terrible songs per se, but the kind of stuff that passes by completely unnoticed. Strangely enough, the album has received almost unanimous praise from critics from what I can tell, but I'm guessing they are all falling into the trap of over-appreciating the whole tribal thing which recalls Godsmack's early years. Me, I can't see the great in this, aside from the couple of songs I've mentioned. Points for unique sound but not for much else.

6

Download: Broken Road, My Light
For the fans of: Godsmack
Listen: Myspace

Release date 27.09.2010
Universal Republic

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