Low end groove, addictive riffs and vocal melodies. Thought provoking lyrics combined with unabashed passion and enthusiasm. These are the ingredients that have made dUg Pinnick one of the most profound song writers and voices in rock history. Whether it’s King’s X, KXM or his solo work, he always brings his A game. And his new solo album, ‘Joy Bomb’ is no exception .
From ‘Jon Boy’ to the reprise of ‘Like a Wolf,’ ‘Joy Bomb’ is a top to bottom banger. What else is expected? ‘A Long Way from Home’ establishes the heavy, low end groove that permeates throughout the record. Pinnick sounds youthful, inspired and ageless. ‘Key Changer’ takes the bass, groove metal to the max. After all these years, Pinnick always seems to find inventive and original riffs. ‘Key Changer’ is a perfect example of that energy and drive to always write the best. ‘Equally Divided’ has a strong progressive feel. As well as a strong blues vibe. That retains dark moods that are appropriate for today’s neverending nightmares.
As the album moves into its second act, it seems to chill out a bit. That is, until ‘Like a Wolf’ lays down it’s two ton mega riffage. It’s like Meshuggah and Black Sabbath came together with soulful vocal melodies. ‘Social Distancing’ however, does slow things down. And in the most appropriate way. A sensitive, accurate track of how most artists have been feeling since the pandemic hit in the spring of 2020. ‘Love and Fear’ brings in the boogie. While ‘Long Live Love’ transcends 50’s rock balladry. ‘Slaves’ sounds like it could be on King’s X’s ‘Dogman’ album. While ‘The Poison’ holds down the low end, funky as all hell jammage. ‘Making Sense of the Bones’ closes the album out before the reprise of ‘Like a Wolf.’ It’s a 100 second gaumet of ten ton heavy grooves, attitude a sheer badassery. Throwing down major drop metal heaviness. Capping off one hell of a record.
All in all, ‘Joy Bomb’ is a top to bottom thriller of quality, melodic heavy metal. Pinnick sounds fresh, revived and ready to conquer. If this is any indicator of what the new King’s X album may sounds like, hold on to your shit. A killer album from beginning to end.
