Glenn Hughes, Joe Bonamassa, Jason Bonham, and Derek Sherinian come together to release new music for the first time in 7 years!
Black Country Communion, the iconic rock supergroup, released their fifth studio album, V, available worldwide now after its June 14 release.
Let’s be honest, the roll call of names here makes you take notice immediately.
Since their debut in 2010, Black Country Communion has delivered a series of critically acclaimed albums, each showcasing the group’s ability to fuse British blues-rock with American soul in a way that captivates audiences worldwide. Their return with ‘V’ and the single “Stay Free” reaffirms their status as rock royalty and showcases their growth as musicians and storytellers.
Longtime collaborator, producer Kevin Shirley, provides insight into the recording process and highlights the unique chemistry and camaraderie within the band. “When we convened in 2023 to start recording the album V, it really was like picking up the day after the most recent gig,” Shirley reflects. “The camaraderie is immediately evident. Once they start playing, everyone is deadly serious, and the music sounds like this band, and nothing else sounds like it.”
Onto the review.
The album runs to ten songs and comes in at just over the 50 minute mark. In the world of British blues, it was one of the most anticipated releases in 2024. Remember, British blues is quite a wide church. I always note that Lemmy described Motorhead as a British blues outfit. I’d turn as well to our talk with BB King’s daughter, Shirley King, who identified the blues as coming from storytelling and lived experiences, like a photo album of lives. With this powerhouse of a band, they do bring storytelling and experience to the mix. With a kind of modernised Zeppelin sound spun into a new framework.
“Enlighten” opens the album in quite a heavy rocking manner. Jason Bonham shines on the drum kit and the vocals do take us into the shadows and kick some significant ass. I was surprised that this was really very airwaves friendly and I would like to see it playing well on rock radio.
“Stay Free” was quite funky. I liked the strutting bass and drum tones. A solid riff means you can’t help moving with the beat and the chorus cuts the mustard. It was a single release and I can see why.
“Red Sun” runs for 6 and a half minutes. It therefore has the breathing space to explore a bit. It is more of a traditional song, looking back to older blues rock sounds. It did less for me than the opening two, but it was a decent fit within the wider album and has a strong grungy riff.
“Restless” connected better. A lovely guitar opening – one of those you could play in the late sunset while looking out over a lake. The vocals are lamenting, dreamy and build up nicely.
“Letting Go” slips into a pleasing chorus that you can sing along to and it sounds like something the US radio stations would jump at. The guitar breaks have a power to them and the track is very listenable. I’d include it in any live set the guys do.
“Skyway” is very narrative driven. It moves away a little from the sound on the wider album, it’s slower and highlights a sweeter, melodic guitar sound.
“You’re Not Alone” returns to heavier territory. It has a heavy 1970s sound mixed with some really passionate vocals from Hughes and a bit of demon drumming that pound away.
“Love and Faith” is another track running at 6 and a half minutes. This one is really lifted by the keyboards of Derek Sherinian and the whole opening instrumental melody was very enjoyable. It felt a little Deep Purple in places and it reminded me of the heritage this band pulls on.
“Too Far Gone” gets a big instant yes from me. It is vibrant, catchy instrumentally and builds up the riff nicely. It’s another strong vocal performance from Hughes.
“The Open Road” reminded me of Free in places and there is a lot to like in the album closer. Again, the keyboards elevate the track and it is interesting lyrically.
Overview: Given the names involved in this album, it has attracted attention from all over, deservedly because these guys have a pedigree in the business that few can match. It’s been reviewed by the big boys; but I feel I can add too. I would say that these guys are very experienced songwriters and musicians who know exactly how to connect with their fan base. They do spread their wings on a couple of tracks that should gain wider radio play. They often hit the wider rock radio button. Everything is opinion driven, but in my view, the drums are the powerhouse here; the songwriting is very good, and, when they cut free a bit, they blow the bullseye.
Standout tracks: “Enlighten,” “Stay Free,” and “Too Far Gone.”
You can stream/download the album here
Band website here
As a finishing point, to keep us improving the magazine, we really do need your support, and if you can go to the’support us’ button and buy us a coffee, it helps us feel appreciated and keep improving the magazine. We also have our merchandise shop, Lorraine, looking great in the gear! Read on, check out our many great features and reviews, and do bookmark us on your pages!
By Stevie Ritson