Queens of the Stone Age is one of my favorite bands so I was exciting about "Era Vulgaris" coming out. Now that I've listened to it a few times I can tell this one is a grower. Many listenings will be necessary before I can really say for sure if this will be toward the top of the heap this year. I've been pretty hungry for new music so it's release was good timing for me because it will get many listens before it goes into regular rotation with my recent favorites.
Overall I like "Era Vulgaris". While it's a bit of a departure (overused term) from past efforts it's good on it's own and contains the consistent elements clearly influenced by Josh Homme. His guitar work is recognizable and satisfying. QOTSA has it's key ingredients but avoids any real formula. The shifting lineup makes for some differences and while I'm not typically a fan of the revolving band member element some bands seem to have, it doesn't matter much if it's good regardless time and time again. The guest vocals work well and add to the depth a little. "Era Vulgaris" is purposefully gritty and loud but sounds good at the same time. The mix throughout works and I don't have any real complaints.
My perception will change as I get in more listens and I'm certain it will appeal to me more and more. Out of the gate my two favorite songs are "Misfit Love" and "3's & 7's", the former being called the weakest by many reviewers. It's just tastes as always. Amazon has over fifty reviews already so reading a handful gives you a pretty good idea of what people are thinking, Amazon people anyway. I think it's really good even though it's not their best. Clearing the bar they've set for themselves (Songs for the Deaf) is going to be difficult but they need not clear it to remain great.
just found a website devoted to this release:
http://queens-of-the-stone-age-era-vulgaris.info/
Posted by: Graham | July 05, 2007 at 12:56 AM
just found a website devoted to this release:
http://queens-of-the-stone-age-era-vulgaris.info/
Posted by: Graham | July 05, 2007 at 12:56 AM