I’m still not quite sure why Nickelback get such a bad rep for consistently being one of the most reliable (and successful) rock bands out there. With each record they put out, there are always bona fide hits that are a hugely enjoyable listen.
It baffles me why they are so hated amongst the rock scene, but they always bring the hits to the party. Here and Now is no different, as once more the band show they are a class act.
The opening This Means War rides a juggernaut of a hard rock riff that many a band would be proud to have written, and it’s backs to the wall, fists in the air territory from the very get go. Bottoms Up follows quickly with an awesome groove, before lead single When We Stand Together continues Chad Kroeger and co’s penchant for a huge rock anthem.
Acoustic guitar driven, it is a fine song, and one that will get you singing along in no time whatsoever. It is a big tune, and WHAT a chorus from the boys.
Midnight Queen is another anthem, and although lyrically crude in places (check that conservative crew), had Motley Crue written it, the world would be rejoicing at their renaissance. As it is, the critics have pretty much fired the ready made ammunition back at Nickelback rather unfairly. It is a low down dirty rock and roll song, and it is another huge riff. Stop over-analysing it critics! It’s an absolute tune.
Elsewhere there are huge moments, even when the tempo comes down a bit, with Nickelback still able to pen one hell of a rock ballad. Trying Not To Love You and Don’t Ever Let It End are by far the two most gripping of the slower numbers, weaving in some big melodies and some emotive vocal lines from Kroeger. Some of the tracks are a little dull at times elsewhere on Here and Now, but when it’s good, it is VERY good.
This is a solid album from a band who are already on their 7th studio outing. You don’t get to album 7 if you’re not a brilliant band. Nickelback once more prove the doubters wrong.
7.5
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