Black Stone Cherry welcome us with their new EP, which makes one thing clear: they are celebrating… probably the fact that they continue relentlessly and consistently to deliver new music! Twenty years after introducing themselves to us with their debut album, the band remains steady and firmly rooted in what they do best—powerful riffs, energetic songs, and that classic groovy/southern hard rock attitude. For those searching for the raw energy of their first album, “Black Stone Cherry”, the authenticity and balance of “Folklore and Superstition”, or the dirty, bluesy sound of “Kentucky”, some parts of this EP may feel slightly less intense. That said, this does not take away from the fact that the new songs are energetic, honest, and catchy. A fully optimistic mood kicks things off with the title track and its strong refrain, which smoothly leads into “Neon Eyes”, featuring a funkier approach that suits them very well and shows that the band continues to evolve with small but meaningful steps. There are also more melodic and emotional peaks, such as “Deep”, which adds variety and depth to the release. To close the EP, the band surprises us with a cover of Simple Minds and their classic “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”, giving the record an unexpected but welcome final touch. It is a small taste packed into 25 minutes, without unnecessary filler and with a very strong flow throughout. When you keep getting better with time, you definitely earn the right to celebrate…
♦ 9/10
Frost and Fire
