As the story goes, Black Lips’ singer, bass player Jared Swilley was driving through rural Georgia when he had to do a double take after driving by a church sign sporting the words, “Will you be God’s art, or Satan’s graffiti?” It’s a striking phrase that’s loaded with ham-fisted fire and brimstone. It also projects a mystical yin and yang quality that encapsulates an exciting new chapter for Black Lips. The album’s first single, “Can’t Hold On,” is a harbinger of change for the group. First the shifting lineup: Guitarist Jack Hines is on board as a full-time member replacing Ian St. Pé who left the group after 2014’s Underneath the Rainbow. Drummer Joe Bradley has parted ways with Black Lips as well. In his stead, drummer Oakley Munson (formerly of Athens, Georgia weird rockers Puddin’ Tang). Saxophone Zumi Rosow has also joined as a full-time Black Lip, leaving the most indelible mark on the group’s sound, bringing a dose of feminine energy and skronking and wailing sax to the mix. But the most shocking turn of events is a guest appearance by Yoko Ono adding subtle vocal textures to “Can’t Hold On” — one of the perks of hiring Sean Lennon, son of the Beatles’ John Lennon, to record the album. Songs such as “Occidental Front,” “Crystal Night,” and “Can’t Hold On” push the group’s haunted garage rock sound into colorful new terrain, but Rosow’s sax is the star of the show, ushering in a much needed change of pace for the group. (Label: Vice Records)
— CR
The following record stores carry local albums or can easily source them for you. When you purchase them, let them know how much you appreciate their support for local bands!
- Criminal Records (L5P)
- Decatur CD & Vinyl (Decatur)
- Fantasy Land Records (Buckhead)
- Wax’n’Facts (L5P)
- Wuxtry Records (Decatur)
Buy it here: black-lips.com
Items Under $50