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
