Sunday 30 December 2012

TOP 10 OF 2012: THE MARK LANEGAN BAND - BLUES FUNERAL


 
#01: THE MARK LANEGAN BAND - BLUES FUNERAL



Before the release of this album I was only aware of Mark Lanegan as a part time member of The Queens Of The Stone Age. He appears as a guitarist and backing vocalist on several albums and sings lead on several tracks as well (Hangin’ Tree and God Is On The Radio on Songs For The Deaf to name two). Blues Funeral is Lanegan’s seventh studio album and it’s not like anything else I’ve heard before. The first thing that hits you is Lanegan’s trademark whisky drenched growl. It’s like Tom Waits at his best. On Acid. Every song has its own distinct feel, driven by a background of ominous electronic beats and driving bassline’s. Add in those gravelly tones and the result is something unique. Album opener Gravediggers Song sets the tone with a fast deep bass riff that runs throughout the track and draws you right in. This is followed by Bleeding Muddy Water, a slow tempo reflection with a rhythmic pounding bass drum and dark, deep lyrics. Mark Lanegan has never been known for feel-good lyrics and the themes across the album conjure up images of piranhas teeth, devils ascending and chaos blossoming. Other highlights include Riot In My House which has some of the best guitar work on the record and Harborview Hospital, a self-depreciating ode to past mistakes and the unlikely possibility of redemption. There isn’t a bad track on this album although it’s not always instantly accessible. It’s a record that requires you give it your full attention and, if you do, you’ll easily find yourself lost deep within this murky world. So lock the door, turn the lights off, open a bottle of red wine, and let Blues Funeral drag you under and immerse you.

Favourite Track: Bleeding Muddy Water
  

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