Clutch Book of Bad Decisions Review
by Tom Faddis
Clutch is a rock band from Maryland that knows how to get down to business when it comes to making great rock albums. This influential heavy rock band has released their twelfth studio album Book of Bad Decisions via their own label Weathermaker Music. The new album consists of 15 new tracks that was recorded, mixed and produced at Sputnik Sound in Nashville, TN by producer Vance Powell (Jack White, Chris Stapleton, The Raconteurs, The Dead Weather). The album cover was designed by renowned photographer Dan Winters. The new Clutch album holds true to the Clutch style and tradition. With thoughtful stanzas supported by rock riffs and a driving rhythm.
“Spirit of ‘76” starts with a heavy fuzz guitar figure that is riffed over with wah guitar. Neil Fallon’s vocals are full of piss and vinegar and establishes this is no candy pop tune. The lyrics speak to today’s issues as the melody burns into you ears for hours of repeated enjoyment long after the tune has ended. The song has a memorable flow and the lead guitar playing by Tim Sult is a study in taste and rock attitude. The band is creative, while still producing great straight-ahead rock.
“How to Shake Hands” has a psychedelic rock intro followed by Fallon’s singing, which is filled with passion and heart. The band delivers consistent rock propulsion, not letting up, that is what Clutch excels at. The lyrics are more pointed now than ever, yes, “Straight Talk and No Jive.” That is what we want, in our politics and our rock. Clutch delivers on their end, unfortunately that’s the only straight talk. At least the music is still pure.
Hard-hitting rock, with outstanding production values makes Clutch’s twelfth studio album a solid win. Getting better with age, oh yes – there is not any cause to complain, as Clutch certainly has hammered down and is hauling the load.
Clutch Book of Bad Decisions Review
Tracks to sample first: “Spirit of ‘76,” “How to Shake Hands” and “Hot Bottom Feeder.” The song to take a chance on is “Vision Quest.”
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