You run across very few perfect albums over the course of a lifetime. A collection of songs that balances sophistication and drive; that properly intersperses up-tempo tunes with mellower ones; and that doesn't ruin otherwise engaging melodies with banal and inane lyrics. I last found one in 2010--Black Ribbons by Shooter Jennings and Hierophant. In fact, the only other perfect album that I can immediately recall is Creedence Clearwater Revival's Green River. Therefore, I hope Clutch is proud of their latest release, because it is damn-near flawless.
Earth Rocker cemented Clutch as my favorite band. They are at their straight-forward rock best on this record. It would not sound out of place in a biker bar or a nerd gaming den. It sets a musical mood and then keeps you in it until it's over--at which point, you're ready to play it again.
Their songwriting and recording are among their finest efforts here. Neil Fallon's vocals almost have an over-driven quality to them that walks right along the edge of distortion without ever crossing that line into the Land of Bad Production Values. They keep the vocal gimmicks to a minimum, but use them to great effect when they do include them, such as the echo during the interlude in "D.C. Sound Attack." I've seen other reviewers grumble about Jean-Paul Gaster's fast-and-loose drumming style, but I've always felt that part of what makes a perfect album is the proper utilization of imperfection. Gaster's drumming sounds like rock drums should--the grown-up version of a toddler banging away on pots and pans. Tim Sult's expertise with the wah-wah pedal is again evident. Dan Maines' bass guitar provides a robust bottom end and carries the bridge where necessary. Individually, each band member delivers a masterwork performance that have been assembled through their songwriting abilities, recorded and polished (thank you Machine) into a sparkling gem of musical accomplishment.
So let's break it down, song-by-song:
- Earth Rocker
The other night, my wife and I went to a new restaurant and ordered a sampler of their locally-produced cider. There was one brand in particular that had something of an odd taste to it, and neither of us particularly enjoyed it--until I tried a sip with my food. The cider paired fantastically with my appetizer pizza and it was this complementary note that ultimately swayed my opinion of the drink. What does this have to do with Clutch?
The first time I heard this track--prior to the release of the album, as a YouTube video--I felt concern that maybe Clutch was losing its innovative edge. As with the cider, I was wrong. This song is a perfect gateway to the rest of the album, a shouted anthem declaring the band's back-to-their-roots approach that was to follow.
- Crucial Velocity
Then they released this, again as a video. This would be the opening song on the soundtrack of the apocalypse, a dusty ride in the bed of a pick-up truck down a gravel road leading deeper into the recording. Gaster's drum work during the verse is the real standout on this track, pairing perfectly with the simplicity of the guitars, until the chorus kicks the whole thing into overdrive.
- Mr. Freedom
Clutch is pissed at YOU, dilettantes of the world! At least, that seems to be what the lyrics suggest. The band makes effective use of time and key changes, and highlights Maines' bass playing under the melody. This song is the closest the record comes to filler, which says a lot about the strength of Clutch's musical ability. It gives you a bit of a breather before launching a...
- D.C. Sound Attack!
This is one of those rare occasions where an assault on the senses is a good thing. You know, from the low-down grove of harmonica that opens the song, that the riot will begin in fifteen minutes and this is last call to gather your rocks and bottles. The bridge is the real star of this song though, with more cowbell and Fallon leading the charge.
- Unto the Breach
When I first heard this cut, I had to wait several days for the lyrics to find their way to the internet before I could verify that the song is indeed about Doctor Who. I have to set the cruise control in my car when this comes on to avoid inadvertently speeding. Fallon's cries of "One more unto the breach!" are as enticing as having the TARDIS land in your back yard.
- Gone Cold
Fallon's vocals on this slower track are plaintive without sounding whiny. The interweaving of guitars helps build that sense of desolation and loneliness. This song is both stripped down and complex, and a testament to Clutch's capable songwriting.
- The Face
I find this to be Fallon's strongest vocal performance. Of particular note is the wall-of-sound background on the chorus, and yet another intricate bridge, handing down a sermon to put the fear of God or in you. Although in this case, the God sounds more like Kali or Cthulhu.
- Book, Saddle & Go
Another of my favorite tracks. Gaster's drumming is striking, excuse the pun. The lyrics evoke vivid imagery of driving your horse hard across the plains with the sheriff and his men hot on your heels and the gallows waiting.
- Cyborg Bette
If nothing else, this song proves that Clutch has a sense of humor. A Dear Jane letter for the subject's android lover, with a driving beat and bouncy guitar riffs. The track has an urgent energy to it. Style and grace indeed.
- Oh, Isabella
This is a good song to start winding down the album. A little more mid-tempo than some of the other cuts, it sounds the most like classic Clutch. Great use again of evocative imagery, as well as key changes during the solos. I find it reminiscent of Drink to the Dead.
- The Wolf Man Kindly Requests
The party's over, and to make sure no one overstays their welcome, stragglers will be eaten. This song has a definitive groove to it, and showcases Clutch's ability to make good use of time changes. This is how you end an album. Listen for the discordant guitars leading out of the bridges.
The first Clutch album I ever owned was Strange Cousins From the West, their previous effort. Honestly, I wasn't that impressed. Yet, for some reason, I kept buying their music. I saw them live. And over time, I came to appreciate that Clutch are the epitome of Rock 'n' Roll. No fancy hairstyles, no make-up, no costumes or gimmicks--just four scruffy-looking guys playing loud and hard. I love this album. It's my favorite album from my favorite band, even if it isn't my favorite album ever. If I had any complaint, it would be that Sult relies on the wah pedal too heavily, although true fans know to expect this, as he is a master of this effect. And I only mention it to explain why this didn't receive a top rating from me. I recommend buying this particular recording on vinyl, because a record player will highlight the warm tones. When I grow up, I want to be an Earth Rocker.
Listen DC: 19
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