Music: 6/10 Vocals: 5/5 Lyrics: 4/5 Production: 4/5
Total: 19 of 25: B+
Chris Cornell has the best voice in rock. But, he's getting older (born 1964) as are his fans. Audioslave had minor success. The thought of creating the next Soundgarden is probably impossible at this point. So, Chris is evolving and somewhat mellowing. Are 14 year olds going to be cranking Carry On? No. But I will.
From a musical standpoint, the instruments paint more of a canvas for Chris' voice than stand out on its own. A few exceptions such as "No Such Thing", "Ghosts", and "Your Soul Today" show some good talent by the band. But in the end it's Chris' voice and lyrics that sell this album.
The lyrics are mostly fantastic. A lot of well written material on loves gained and lost, and on lifes trials and successes. I especially love the "Arms Around Your Love" speaking of your ex moving on and feeling the guilt and jealously that it brings. The flip side is covered on "Ghosts" where the ex comes calling but you're not the same person and have moved on.
A few bad songs sprinkle the album. "Poison Eye" kind of rocks but the lyrics and hook just don't sit well. Chris also delves into some bluesy country type songs that are okay. In fact, "Finally Forever" and "Safe and Sound" both kind of sound the same at the start.
Two interesting footnotes for the is album. Chris does a great cover of Micheal Jackson's "Billie Jean" sung with much angst and power. This album also has the James Bond theme song "You Know My Name" which is great for Bond but not so great for music.
Overall, I really like this album and recommend it. It's not going to blow you away. But it's solid and very enjoyable.
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