Author: audioeclectica

Album Review: Jerry Cantrell- I Want Blood

During my time away from Audioeclectica, I was in a deeply contemplative state and when I was searching for answers through music, I found myself digging into familiar favorites. One of the albums that I went deep on was Jerry Cantrell’s excellent album, Degredation Trip. I highly recommend any of you out there to take a listen to that album (the deluxe 2 disc version!!!). The moment I heard there was going to be a new Jerry Cantrell solo album in 2024, I became quite excited. As much as I would love a new Alice In Chains album, it felt right that Jerry continue where he was at. The previous solo album, Brighten, was a nice change of pace and added some really beautiful songs to the catalog Jerry has written over the years but, there was something missing on that album. All that was missing on Brighten can most definitely be found on I Want Blood.

I Want Blood is a very direct and in your face album that goes deep in the way the lyrics and melodies hit you but, also the way the music shapes and leads you to places in your mind that are quite a trip. Jerry is never one to have a shortage of great riffs and throughout the album there are plenty of those signature notes that we’ve come to love. The way this album starts with “Villified” and weaves it’s intricate web all the way till “It Comes,” shows that I Want Blood is an album that is not only striking but also very emotional. One song in particular that gets me every time I listen to it is “Echoes Of Laughter.” This song could have easily been on an Alice album but, I don’t know that it would hit the same. The way this song encapsulates everything Jerry is uncompromising. Also, the backing vocals of Greg Puciato on this track adds to the haunting soundscape and deep feels this songs brings to the table.

One of the other things I love about I Want Blood is that Jerry brought back drummer Mike Bordin (Faith No More) and bassist Robert Trujillo (Metallica) both of whom performed on Degredation Trip. I’ve always loved the sound of that album and the way the three of them created an auditory assault on your ears in a good way and that continues on this album. Also on the album is Guns N Roses’s Duff McKagen, longtime Jerry collaborator drummer Gil Sharone and keyboardist Vincent Jones. The engineering and production of Joe Barresi is quite good. The tones on the guitars are exquisite and they really shine. Put on some really good headphones and you’ll hear all these great nuances that the guitars build on. Joe and Jerry working together really is a solid pairing and the end result is this killer album.

I Want Blood is one of my top 5 favorite albums of 2024. Jerry really went for it on this album and it really does have some of his best work on it. This is one of those solo albums that really shine and highlight a solo career. I can’t wait for Jerry to tour on this record and bring these songs to life. Do yourself a favor, go out to your favorite record store, buy this album, then put it on and blast it. I also had the fun pleasure of being in Seattle the week I Want Blood came out and got my vinyl copy of the album signed by Jerry at Easy Street Records! Even in the rain, this album was worth it!

Overall Rating: A

Review By: Brian Lacy

Jerry Cantrell- I Want Blood:

Anticipated Albums: Better Lovers- Highly Irresponsible

Ever since Better Lovers was announced as a band I’ve been really excited about it. Their first EP, God Made Me An Animal is one hell of a primal scream of intensity and aggression. Then came the chance to see them live and they came through like a category 5 hurricane. After that, the anticipation for the debut album grew day by day. Now we are only a few weeks away from Highly Irresponsible being unleashed to the world. This album is one of the few that I’ve impatiently been waiting for. Each song released so far has grabbed my attention and caused me to play them really loud and on constant repeat. The time for Better Lovers to come and claim their place is now and be prepared for a full onslaught of heaviness and intensity that is most welcomed!

Highly Irresponsible is out October 25th Pre-order at: https://bfan.link/highly-irresponsible

A White Horse Covered In Blood:

Future Myopia:

At All Times:

Audioeclectica Returns!!!!

It’s been said that if you find yourself losing the passion for something you should go back to your roots and rediscover what made you fall for that in the first place. Over the last few months or so, I felt like I had lost a lot of the passion I have for music along with writing and running Audioeclectica. I started this as a labor of love and continued to do it as so. After 2100 articles I felt like I had exhausted myself as well as those of you that read what I write about. There are a few reasons for my taking a break and below will be the answer as to why (not that I need one).

I do want to thank you all for all the years of support. Thank you to all that have shared and reposted articles, wrote me notes and have joined in the fun of following along. I really do appreciate all of you out there that have been along for the ride and it will continue.

For those of you that don’t know, since 2021 I have been part of bringing back The Cobalt Cafe (the legendary So Cal all ages rock club) as The Cobalt Presents, doing shows at different venues across Los Angeles. Part of my exhaustion has been due to that as well. Booking shows and bands and then running the show and listening to band after band can definitely lead you to needing a break. After all this I needed a break from music it seemed. Even just going to a concert for fun was a bit of a challenge as I tried to just enjoy it without thinking of it in terms of reviewing a show. Though there was one show recently that I did go to and enjoyed quite a lot and I’ll get to that in a moment.

Then there is the other factor that caused me taking a break. For a while too, I was working with a partner to get an artist development company off the ground. There are many different caveats to this one. First there are the bands that really work their ass off cause they really want it. Then there are others that you can tell they only want to be in a band for the sake of being in a band and telling people they are in a band but, they won’t do what is necessary to get to the next level of things. That alone is annoying enough because, myself and my partner in this would be working to get things going and such only for nothing to happen on their end. It’s interesting too to watch the bands that really want it. They come in and kill it every time. The ones that don’t come in like that and or question every aspect usually are the ones that fall short. If you question everything to the most minute detail, you’re going to get so far in your head that reality is far off. There also seems to be a sort of empty void between communicating with people these days. One other thing that really bugged me about all that came with that was there was never any sort or gratitude for the work put in. The entitled sensibility of today’s youth has really left a bad impression on me. You know who you are if you are reading this!

Another reason for my taking a break was seeing a total lack of professionalism out there with a lot of the bands. There seems to be this thought (especially with the younger bands) that you don’t have to pay attention to things and read the details that are sent your way. I can’t tell you how frustrating it is to have to deal with either kids that don’t pay attention or their parents that “manage” the band and them not reading a very detailed checklist of sorts or just not putting in any work to being in a band. Then there is the reviewing the show factor. Putting on the shows made me have to really question what I was doing. Do I review these shows and bands and then absolutely destroy a kid’s dream because their band is that bad? That’s not the type of energy I want to be putting out in the universe.


It has taken me a while to come around to the idea of continuing, then an album came out and it was sort of the start to me finding my love of all this again. I remember being a very young kid, probably about 2 or 3 years old and hearing a band that ultimately led me down the path of becoming the music nerd/encyclopedia that I am, that band was Bon Jovi, and they just released their 16th, yes SIXTEENTH studio album, entitled Forever. Upon listening to this album, a smile came back to my face. It’s kind of funny that it took a Bon Jovi album to bring me back. And I’m sure a lot of you are scratching your head wondering “really?! Bon Jovi? Yep! sometimes you have to go back to the start to find out what it was that got you into it in the first place. After that my passion started to come back little by little. Then something else happened that really seemed to have brought it back. My daughter started to get really into the album and the next thing I knew she was asking me for more Bon Jovi. How could I say no?! I mean this is one of those proud dad moments and it really made me think, wow this is the power of music and how it can really make things all come together. Plus now I get to share that with her so I can’t be happier. Thanks Bon Jovi for making me come back to music.

As for the shows, I went to see Queens Of The Stone Age at the Santa Barbara Bowl. They played a set that night that was chock full of deep cuts and Josh even told the crowd a couple songs into the show that “if you want hits tonight, too bad, you should have been at the Forum show. Tonight we are going to play some deep cuts.” As a big proponent for bands changing it up night to night live, this was a very welcome surprise. Plus it had been quite a long time since I’ve seen them live and the definitely didn’t disappoint. Also, it being at the Santa Barbara Bowl was great as that venue is quite great for seeing concerts! Then there more recently I attended a couple of shows that really made me want to get this up and going again. Seeing Mastodon and Lamb Of God celebrate the 20 year anniversaries of their albums Leviathan and Ashes Of The Wake was one hell of a show. Both those albums are exceptional and to hear all those songs live was absolutely awesome. The other show is one that many of you wouldn’t expect but, let me tell you it was one of those shows that felt just right and that show was the return of Linkin Park at the Forum. That show was one of those that from moment one grabbed you and everyone in the audience and for the next 2 hours you were locked in. Plus they have returned with quite the invigorating fire and that felt quite contagious and that was the moment I knew I had to continue Audioeclectica.

In closing, I’ve decided to continue Audioeclectica and I’m going to finally be doing a few things that I’ve put off doing because I was busy with other things that took my passion away. There is still a lot of great music out there to share be it older and new. Cobalt shows are still happening and I urge you to come check out a show! It’s quite fun. There is a lot of new things that you’ll see in the coming months on Audioeclectica, please stay tuned for all that fun! And again, thank you all for your support! It means a lot!

See and Talk To You All Soon,

Brian







Live Show Review: Gouge Away at 1720

It’s been a week since I saw Gouge Away and it left such a mark on me, it’s taken me a while to put it all together. Their new album, Deep Sage is as of this writing my favorite album of the year. There are many reasons why and I will get to that in another post but, the main thing is the connection that album has. Those are the type of albums and songs that when you go see that band live, it truly changes the whole perspective around.

As the sound of feedback began and the twinkle of cymbals began as though the calm before the storm erupted. Starting off with “Stuck In A Dream” was quite perfect. The song was shot out of a cannon and from there, there was no turning back. The ferocious yet delicate nature of Christina Michelle’s vocals are devastatingly beautiful. Then you back that up with a band that was firing on all cylinders, it’s simply magic. Throughout their set it was just an onslaught of excitement. The way the band mixed in their older songs with the new ones made for a really great listening experience, as you can see and hear the evolution of the band unfold in front of your eyes. Each new song played this evening had it’s own special charm. Songs like the epic “Dallas” was astonishing live and so cool that it was played early in the set. “Maybe Blue” was another new one that sounded so damn good live. Perhaps my two favorite songs of the night came when they played “Spaced Out” and “Idealized.” I didn’t even realize at the time how much and how hard I was singing along until I noticed how horse my voice was after their set. Ending the set was the always awesome “Ghost.”

Looking back on that show now, it gives me great joy to see a band live that not only enjoys it for the love of the music and each other but, there is a sense of reckless abandon to it in a playful dangerous way. Their live show is one of those that feels alive and vibrant, even if the stage is dimly lit. If you haven’t heard their new album Deep Sage yet, I strongly recommend you do so. It’s one hell of an album that bleeds from the heart. I personally hope Gouge Away can make it back to Los Angeles soon on a headline stop. That was easily one of the most fun shows I’ve been to in a long while and it’s one that I will remember for quite some time!

Yes, I did stay for Metz and they were great. But I really was there for Gouge Away and they stole the show.

Gouge Away- Deep Sage:

SHOW PREVIEW: AUDIOECLECTICA’S 2024 BIRTHDAY BASH at HOTEL ZIGGY

This week I will be celebrating my birthday. I’m not much for big celebrations anymore but, I do love a good rock show! So with that in mind, come out Saturday Night on May 4th (Yes, May The Fourth Be With You), to Hotel Ziggy on Sunset Blvd and join in the fun of celebrating my birthday with 5 hand picked bands by yours truly. This eclectic lineup will be a rocking good time! Be sure to be there. Doors open at 7:30 pm. Tickets are only $10 and the show is ALL AGES!!!

Bands Playing:

Roving: This band is rad. They are a superb alternative rock band with space rock and shoegaze tendencies. Their first full length album, Spindrift arrives soon. The album was produced and recorded by Alex Estrada (Iress, Touche Amore, etc). I’ve been keeping an eye on this band for a bit and am stoked to have them ignite the night and get the rock a rollin!

The Anti-Groupies: These ladies are one of the best up and coming bands in all of So Cal. They have the right attitude and kick ass songs to back it all up. Their live show is one that you keep wanting to watch not just cause they are awesome players but, the way they command an audiences attention is quite compelling. Their latest single/video “Read The Room” is chock full of attitude, killer riffs and a catchiness that keeps you coming back. The Anti-Groupies are currently working on their debut album, to be released later this year.

Band Of The Week: The Anti-Groupies

Centershift: The homies/family. Been with these gents since day one and they are only getting better. The new album that Centershift is working on shows more than just the evolution of the band. There were no boundaries as to where their songwriting went and the new songs they will be playing live will definitely up the ante for the evening. Be on the lookout for the next Centershift single and album to come out soon!



Futurelust: I’m still loving this band. Ever since I booked them a couple months back, I’ve wanted to have them back and what a perfect night to do so! Futurelust is a rock band through and through with a 70’s edge mixed with 90’s alternative rock and even a bit of a post-punk/pseudo goth tinge. I look forward to what’s to come with this band. Futurelust is a great live band that emits an energy that is quite compelling.

Band Of The Week: Futurelust

The Cursed Machine: This wild and fun band brings a ton of energy to the stage. I’ve been wanting to book them on a night that has a great party vibe and what a perfect night. The Cursed Machine has a bit of a garage rock meets punk rock style that fits their personalities so well.

Solo Album Spotlight: Harvestman- Triptych: Part One

Harvestman, the psych project of Neurosis’ Steve Von Till has a really intriguing album coming out, Triptych: Part One. The releases of these albums will coincide on three of 2024’s full moons, making Triptych, Harvestman’s most ambitious undertaking yet. Triptych: Part One was recorded and mixed at The Crow’s Nest in North Idaho by Steve Von Till who creates the movements using guitars, bass, synths, percussion, percussion, loops, filters, and more. The record features guest contributions from Dave French (Yob) who performs stock tank percussion on “Nocturnal Field Song” and provides frequency consultation for the album, bass from Al Cisneros (Sleep, OM) on “Psilosynth” and “Harvest Dub,” and John Goff (Cascadia Bagpiper) who plays Northumbrian smallpipes on “Mare And Foal.”

Steve Von Till is a mastermind of sonics and this album pushes the boundaries of volume as well as tapping into tribal-esque rhythms with eerie synths that make for quite the psychedelic twist. There is a complete artistic vision amongst these songs and the the more you listen, the more you hear things you missed on previous listens. One of the most fun things about listening to this album is that it allows your mind to wander and float through the different soundscapes. Throughout the album, there are many twists and turns that captivate your attention and take you to different dimensions. Another element that this album has is an introspectiveness that unfolds with each layer of music.

2024 is really shaping up to be quite the year for artistic albums and this new Harvestman album is right up there with the best of them!

Harvestman- Triptych Part One:



New Release: Iress- Falling

I’ve been impatiently waiting for this day so I could write about Iress’s new single, “Falling” from their upcoming album, Sleep Now, In Reverse (out July 26th via Dune Altar)!!! What a way to kick off a week! “Falling” is a beautifully dreamy and haunting song with an undercurrent of heaviness in the shape of a bit of doom and shoegaze. Then you add in the vocals that, send the chills right up your whole body. What a song AND a track one on the album! I personally can’t wait for this album to arrive and for what’s to come for Iress.

Iress- Falling (and Sleep Now, In Reverse Pre-Order):

Iress Online:

http://www.weareiress.com

weareiress.bandcamp.com

instagram.com/weareiress

twitter.com/weareiress

facebook.com/weareiress

youtube.com/@WeAreIress

Anticipated Albums: Sleepmakeswaves- It’s Here, But I Have No Names For It

For many years now, Australia has been a haven for great rock bands. The list of great Aussie bands from Rose Tattoo, AC/DC, Sliverchair, Karnivool and more continues to impress. Even though they have been around for a minute (formed in 2006), I’m just now finding out about Sleepmakeswaves and I’m hooked. This fantastic 3 piece band is about to release their new album, It’s Here, But I Have No Names For It, and it’s one of the best instrumental albums I’ve heard in a long time. What you find on the album are 8 songs that take you on quite the listening journey into another realm. The cinematic sensibilities found throughout the album are oh so sweet. Then you have the elements of different rock genres mixed together to create a soundscape that makes it feel majestic. Sleepmakeswaves have really made an album that stands out not just as an instrumental album but, more as a piece of art. It’s hard to keep people’s attention these days but, these 8 songs will most definitely capture you. If you like bands such as Explosions In The Sky and This Will Destroy You than Sleepmakeswaves is the perfect soundtrack!

Sleepmakeswaves on Bandcamp:



Sleepmakeswaves- Super Realm Park:

Sleepmakeswaves- Ritual Control:

New Release: Fact Pattern- Never Bleed

For some time now, I’ve really been digging on the band Fact Pattern. They are one of the few bands out there that really know how to embrace the “industrial” sound and make it sound the way it should. The band’s new single “Never Bleed” embraces the “industrial” sound while exploring some new territory that goes into post-punk. One of the things that I really like about Fact Pattern is that they are willing to experiment to evolve. “Never Bleed” is the band’s first new music since 2021 and they are for sure on the right path to the next level! Do yourself a favor and dig into Fact Pattern and this killer new song!

Fact Pattern- Never Bleed (Official Video):

Fact Pattern- Never Bleed:

New Release: The Hope Conspiracy- Those Who Gave Us Yesterday

This is quite exciting. In 2023 The Hope Conspiracy announced their return and now today, we get a new single from their upcoming new album, Tools of Oppression / Rule by Deception was engineered by Kurt Ballou and Zach Weeks at God City Studios, (out May 31 via Deathwish Inc.). The return of The Hope Conspiracy is a very welcomed one! This new single “Those Who Gave Us Yesterday” is one hell of a punch to the gut. There’s always been a sense of urgency to this band and this new album surely will continue that hard line of explosiveness.

The Hope Conspiracy- Those Who Gave Us Yesterday: