J&R Adventures (Label)
June 14, 2024 (Release)
3 hours
All four members of Black Country Communion have day jobs and plenty of side gigs, but when they get together in BCC they seem to make something that has little to do with their other work. It's shocking that it's been seven years since their last album, but they only make albums when all four of them (five if you count Kevin Shirley) are ready to commit to the band and the album.
This album is perhaps their heaviest yet, but it also has elements of soul, passion and funk.
Glenn Hughes' bass playing is superbly powerful and has his usual smooth touch, and his vocals may be even better now than they were in Purple.
Though primarily known as a blues player, Bonamassa also plays hard rock with aplomb, flawlessly performing the heaviest material, which is evidenced here. His harmonies with Hughes and backing vocals are really strong and take the music even further. As always, his solos are perfectly timed and without any unnecessary widdle-ing or shredding.
As he's gotten older, Jason Bonham has developed a more delicate touch when needed, but he still retains the sheer power he brought to so many bands and sessions over the years – like Keith Moon of The Who, it's hard to imagine BCC without his drumming.
Derek Sherinian has often played supporting role to the other performers, but he is arguably more forward here, especially in his Hammond playing, with his keyboards giving the music much-needed depth and texture.
This album is to me their best work yet, the egos are kept in check and it feels like the four of them really enjoy playing together.
Kevin Shirley's insight into the recording process highlights the unique chemistry and camaraderie within the band. “When we got together in 2023 to start recording the album 'V,' it really felt like we were reuniting the day after our most recent show,” Shirley recalls. “The camaraderie is immediately apparent. When we start playing, everyone is very engaged, and the music sounds like this band and like no other.”
Musically, it's tight, controlled and has a real rock feel – touching on a variety of rock styles but always with the feel of a BCC album.
Featuring some fantastic songs, including the opener “Enlighten,” the album starts off with a massive bang and then rises from there.
The single “Stay Free” is a real change of pace for BCC with a funky keyboard riff at the heart of the song, but still features one of Bonamassa's best solos.
The album also includes the rock ballad “Restless,” featuring gorgeous Gary Moore-esque guitar and Hughes' passionate vocals.
This is an album that hits all the highlights in every way, and I honestly can't wait to see them perform it live.