Black Stone Cherry, I must admit, are a band that I have never really got into in a big way, never really delving into their self titled debut, or their second album, Folklore and Superstition. With that in mind, Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea is the first time I have spent listening to their studio output, and in many ways, it is a brilliant introduction to them as a band.
Knowing what their sound was like prior to sticking this on, it is clear that with their third record, they have barely deviated from their trademark sound, which is what they are known for now in the rock community, and it is very much a case of if it’s not broken, don’t try to fix it.
With Black Stone Cherry you know you will get powerhouse guitar riffs, the occasional guitar solo and big choruses and hooks, all in their inimitable Southern rock country styling, and this release does not disappoint. There are some huge moments on here too, which sees them stake a claim for mainstream recognition and greatness. Opener White Trash Millionaire is a massive track, and a worthy lead single, and the opening quartet of that, along with Killing Floor, In My Blood and Such A Shame all pack a considerable punch. The musicianship is of the highest order, and the quality of the band’s songcraft and writing abilities are proven throughout, as the album deviates between hard rocking anthems, and more melodic, slower “country-fied” hard rock influences.
Won’t Let Go is a real highlight, taking the bar up another notch on it’s arrival, and that is also true of Like I Roll, and the heartfelt Stay, which are two other fine songs, and all three standout head and shoulders above the rest of the material, in spite of the high quality throughout. They have massive hooks and memorable choruses, and it is with tracks like this that Black Stone Cherry could make a huge splash on radio airwaves all around the world.
In comparison to these phenomenal songs, the likes of Blame It On The Boom Boom and Shake seem a little throwaway, but there is enough on Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea for them not to effect it’s delivery. Their Southern stylings are truly unique, and the vocals of Chris Robertson are perfect throughout, as the band around him show some cracking form. With this, they could well be on their way to arena bothering heights, which is something pretty special from a redneck foursome from the dry-country of Edmonton, Kentucky.
An excellent record throughout, with some dramatic high points, and which has inspired me to dig into their back catalogue soon; I have clearly been missing out over the last few years!
9/10
Black Stone Cherry - Stay
I'd sell my soul just to see your face
And i'd break my bones just to heal your pain
And in these times I need a saving grace
’Cos time is running out and I'm starting to lose my faith
[chorus]
But if I told you I loved you would it make you wanna stay
I'm sorry for the way I make you feel day after day
And if I wrote you a love song and sang it to you everyday
Would it ever be enough to make you wanna come back home to stay?
Would it make you, make you wanna stay?
My hearts on my sleeve but its turning black
And without your touch I'm not gonna last
It feels like my walls are caving in
And i'll do anything to have you here again
[chorus]
The days are cold the nights are long
and I can't stand to be alone
Please know this is not your fault
And all I want is to tell you I love you
And make you wanna stay.
I'm sorry for the way I make you feel day after day
And if I wrote you a love song and sang it to you everyday
Would it ever be enough to make you wanna come back home to stay
Would it make you, make you wanna stay
(I'm sorry for my ways)
Would it make you, make you wanna stay
(will it ever be enough)
Would it make you, make you wanna stay
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