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ART OF ANARCHY
The Madness
Century Media

Nearly two years after their debut release, which featured former vocalist Scott Weiland, ART OF ANARCHY are back with a new album and new vocalist. The quintessential “super group” boasts current and/or former members of DISTURBED, GUNS N’ ROSES and CREED, however The Madness is quite the departure from the band members’ previous work. I would refer to it as purely hard rock. It is a polished, radio-friendly record with guitar hooks o’ plenty and an equitable amount of ballads.

Ron “Bumblefoot” Thal’s guitar work is excellent, but his capabilities exceed what I heard on this album. The melodies are there and the solos are quite eloquent and bright with a very precise and well-produced tone. It is the musical equivalent of only getting to second base. I kept waiting for Bumblefoot to just unleash. I don’t want to sound like I am putting this album down totally, but when your team signs Edwin Encarnacion, you expect homeruns. The Madness is a solid double to the gap in right-center. Maybe I am just too much of a metalhead?

In the months following the infamous Facebook video where he cited being homeless, former CREED vocalist Scott Stapp announced that he had joined ART OF ANARCHY to replace Scott Weiland after his passing. It is refreshing to hear from Scott again outside of CREED. His baritone voice cuts right through Bumblefoot’s guitarwork, like a hot knife through butter. “Yarling” is kept to a minimum…in fact, much like the rest of the members of the band, Scott’s vocals are a unique departure from his days in his former group. The listener can easily tell that it is him, but it is different.

ART OF ANARCHY is rounded out by DISTURBED bassist John Moyer, Vince Votta on drums and Jon Votta on rhythm guitar. Album standouts for me were “The Madness”, “1000 Degrees”, “Dancing With The Devil” – all of which are some of the heavier tunes on the record. It is a solid album with a good mix of rockers and ballads. If you are looking for something that sounds a little more mainstream with excellent players and top-notch production – look no further.

4.0 Out Of 5.0

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