ALBUM REVIEW: Family Tree – Black Stone Cherry
Gracing the scene with their southern sounding rock for almost two decades is BLACK STONE CHERRY. Raised in Kentucky, they grew up around music, making it no surprise that they turned to it. Blues is a prominent influence in many southern rock bands, a key style that shaped who they are. Last year saw the release of a blues EP titled Back To Blues, paying homage to the genre that influenced them. It seemed only fitting that with their sixth album, Family Tree, they continue with the roots that made them.
It’s obvious that the blues has become more prominent in this album, more so than previous albums. A direction that the band wanted to start taking. Opening with strong guitars, Bad Habit launches into a narrative of female companions, their influence hidden under metaphors. Moving on to Burnin’, it feels upbeat and passionate, full of romance. “My senorita, I know how to treat her” are lyrics that echo alongside Ben Wells‘ driving guitars. The song commands you to embrace that fire.
BLACK STONE CHERRY have a way of making emotional songs that cut deep and bring tears to eyes. Family Tree offers the humble and unsurprising family orientated My Last Breath. Directed at vocalist Chris Robertson‘s son, the lyrics “You were my world and she was my girl” reflect on the importance of a loving family. This track sums up the album title in a nutshell. Bearing a sense of strong heritage and soul, the quartet haven’t lost their soft side.
Switching the vibe back up is Southern Fried Friday Night. It opens in an electric fashion, continuing with seductive riffs throughout. It is fast-paced, bouncy and has the catchy hooks that BLACK STONE CHERRY are so great are delivering. It not only does its job in describing the crazy nights that are had in “the country life”, it invites you to share the party.
Incredible song-writing features once again in Dancin’ In The Rain. Featuring Warren Haynes (GOV’T MULE) on guitars, he adds another layer to the sound with his unique playing style and vocals. Haynes and Robertson work effortlessly together. Their alternating vocals simulate a conversation which come together at the end adding a beautiful touch. Haynes is not the only legend to grace the album. A tribute to soul and funk icon James Brown oozes out with such honour, a fitting homage.
You Got The Blues features Robertson‘s five-year-old son, lending his sweet vocals, taking after his father. It’s in this track where Robertson‘s vocals follow the blues style to its top potential. Deep, throaty and full of soul. Subtle metaphors follow in the album about not only family and women but driving. A simple yet therapeutic way to let off steam, the way BLACK STONE CHERRY have told the feeling is spot on.
Family Tree holds thirteen outstanding tracks. All feel authentic and honest when incorporating the influence of the blues. A humble attitude carries each track from start to finish, this is very much a reflection on the people who are important in our lives. From the musicians that inspired four Kentucky teenagers to pick up their instruments to the families that offered their rooms to practice in. Family Tree is a step in a new direction sound-wise, delving more into the blues. It may be a sign of a permanent change for BLACK STONE CHERRY, and if it is, after this offering, it will be met with open arms.
Rating: 9/10
Family Tree is out now via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group.
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