Mark’s Review:

In an autumn full of anticipated releases from some of metal’s heaviest hitters, it’s Baroness’s second major release that stands out.  When the “Red Album” splashed onto the scene; it was so great, it generated amazing buzz, was named Revolver’s album of the year, and declared Savannah’s Baroness as the new gods of sludge.  That album completely kicked my ass from the first time I heard the opening notes of “Rays on Pinion,” so I along with many others have been waiting two years in anticipation for their next offering.  I’m happy to report that “Blue Record” does not disappoint, in fact, it rules.

“Blue Record” begins with two instant classics: “The Sweetest Curse” and “Jake Leg“.  Both of these songs are sludgy anthems that epitomize that Baroness style by combining John Baizley’s throaty voice, over-buzzed guitars and pounding drums into a dynamic blend all their own.  The harmony guitars abound on the album and the fast, and out-of control runs are displayed once again on songs like “A Horse Called Golgotha“.  The unsung hero of Baroness is definitely drummer Alan Blickle, who’s barreling, single-kick pulse drives life into “O’er Hell and Hide” and lends some swing and balance to “Swollen and Halo“.  Instrumental interludes are back again, but stylistically, there is an intent to reincarnate the themes they introduce into similar melodies that project a new life and a new perspective.  You can hear the results as the chanted vocal melody of “Steel that Sleeps the Eye” returns as a driving rocker in “Swollen and Halo“, or when the stomping waltz of “Ogeechee Hymnal” changes into the dirgey “Bullhead’s Lament“.  Once again the production is top-notch, creating a sound that’s soulful and dirty, yet tight and composed.  And I don’t think I have to praise the artwork, because it continues to prove the worthlessness of .mp3s.  Do yourself a favor and buy this record on vinyl.

The “Red Album” is a tough effort to top, because it’s pretty much perfect, but “Blue Record” comes close.  It’s definitely a logical step in the progression of the band, and it shows that they are here to dominate the metal scene for years to come.  The songs are a bit more streamlined, and a bit toned down, but they have a confidence and a grace underneath the rough exterior.  It’s scary to think what Baroness is capable of artistically, but I’m hoping for a long career, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Mark’s Rating:

King says: “Baroness, take my advice, just don’t release a “Black Album,” we’ve seen how that ruins credibility.”

Chris’ Review:

My main question for the new Baroness record was whether it would distinguish Baroness from the easy comparisons and classifications that the Red Album, enjoyable as it is from beginning to end, could not escape. To my great delight, the Blue Record defines Baroness clearly as their own band.

I wouldn’t say any part of the Red Album was disagreeable, but on the whole the album failed to grab me; it usually fades to the background as I’m listening. The Blue Record captivates throughout with a just-right amount of challenging sounds and passages instead of merely delivering one nice sound after another. What I’m getting at is, like most great albums, the Blue Record takes risks; it’s not homogeneous. Not everyone is going to like the acoustic sing-along “Steel That Sleeps The Eye.” The galloping beat of “Oer Hell and Hide” might be too dancey for you. Why the hell is that fuzz guitar solo on “A Horse Called Golgotha” so damn loud? Somehow Baroness makes these oddities enjoyable.

And the more conventional parts are plenty pleasurable as well: a treasure trove of guitar tones playing signature Baroness licks, layered vocals singing and yelling that signature melodic style. Musically I don’t know what you call it, but it sounds like the motivational melodies of the Seven Dwarves sung by Viking marauders.

Look closer at the art nouveau inspired cover art and you see more and more interesting details you might miss on your first glance: broken eggs spilling their embryonic goo, giant sperm wriggling in the sky. Listen to the Blue Record with a similar attention to detail and enjoy the revelations.

Chris’ Rating:

King says: “The Baroness: my favorite G.I. Joe character and (now my) southern metal band.”

Have A Listen:

Baroness – The Sweetest Curse:

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