Post by rtbuck on Nov 13, 2007 13:41:12 GMT -5
Juliette & the Licks – Four On the Floor
Label : TMG
Review by Bucky for Rock N Roll Universe
Actress Juliette Lewis formed her rock band,the Licks,back in 2003 with guitarists Todd Morse & Kemble Thel Walters along with the rhythm section of bassist Jason Womack & drummer Ed Davis. They had released an EP & one full length album but
before they were able to record demos for a new album in 2005 their drummer had left the band. Step in former powerhouse drummer from Nirvana & leader of the Foo Fighters, Dave Grohl. Dave played on the demos for the new album called ‘Four On the Floor’ but had extended his welcome for the remainder of the sessions.
‘Four On the Floor’ is Juliette’s strongest release to date & the band sounds tighter than ever with Grohl’s expertise added to the line-up. The album is explosive right from the start as the opening track “Smash & Grab” does what the title says,it reaches in, grabs you, & smashes you with powerhouse in your face drums, screaming guitars that relive the Stooges & MC5,& of course loud almost screaming vocals by Ms. Lewis. Not letting the listener up for air, Juliette & the Licks come right back by attacking you with their rocking fast paced single from the CD, “Hot Kiss”. The song would feel right at home on the Cult’s ‘Electric’ album, complete with a heavy rhythm backed by power chords & loud guitars.
The album continues it’s loud & fast momentum with the power popish rhythm of “Sticky Honey” & the cool sounding guitar riff that goes through “Purgatory Blues”. “Death Of a Whore” almost has the style of an updated Doors song with a popish anthem chorus that hooks you in. Juliette recites the lyrics as if she is an unborn daughter of Jim Morrison & Patti Smith & delivers one of the best screams I’ve heard. The pace picks right up with “Killer” which is your typical two minute punk tune. The intro to ”Get Up” pays tribute to the Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again” before kicking into a rocker that features Dave Grohl doing his best Keith Moon impression. ”Mind Full Of Dragon”, “Bullshit King”, & “Inside the Cage” all rock to a New Wave beat. The album closes out with an outstanding six minute acoustic number called “Are You Happy”. There is also a hidden track at the end that has a real cool vibe & sound to it.
Overall this is a great album & as great as an actress on the big screen she is, Juliette Lewis shows that her heart is really in Rock & Roll. If you like heavy rhythms, loud guitars, & an in your face singer who isn’t afraid to let her lungs out then this is the band & album is for you.