Rock fans rejoice! Foo Fighters released a new album on Monday, Nov. 10. According to Blabbermouth.net, the album is projected to sell 200,000 units in the U.S. within its first week.
Along with their HBO mini-series of the same name, Sonic Highways pays a unique tribute to American music. Each song off the album was recorded in different cities across the U.S. that are notorious for their music scenes. These cities include Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington D.C., New York City, Austin, Seattle, New Orleans, and Nashville. In addition to being recorded in these cities, the band also welcomed guest talents from each city such as Joe Walsh, of The Eagles, and Zac Brown to contribute.
Fans might be a little nervous about the collaboration between the band and guest artists making the album into a weird fusion of different styles that don’t really mix, but these worries are unfounded. The over-all feel of the album is exactly what fans want in a Foo Fighters record, and the addition of the guest artists gives a unique blend that adds depth to the Foo Fighters’ sound.
“Something From Nothing” opens the album with a bang. The song is reminiscent of past Foo Fighters material but with a twist. Rick Nielson, guest artist from Chicago, adds funk overtones to the mix. Fans will enjoy the familiarity of the track and also enjoy the blend of styles that are present.
“The Feast and the Famine” follows up with what fans would traditionally expect from the band. It’s fast paced with the constant drone of loud guitars and Dave Grohl’s howling voice. Although Pete Stahl and Skeeter Thompson are guest artists for the track, they don’t really add much in style, but fans will enjoy the traditional Foo Fighters’ sound.
“Congregation” is a feel-good tune recorded in Music City. Zac Brown accompanies the band to create a smooth blend of country/folk and rock n’ roll.
“I Am A River” is an emotional epic spanning over seven minutes, and is accompanied by the Los Angeles Youth Orchestra. Fans might be apprehensive, after all, rock bands and orchestras don’t normally mix. However, this song is an exception. The orchestra doesn’t overpower the band, nor does the band completely drown out the orchestra. It’s a nice, subtle blend that actually works quite well together.
All in all, this album is yet another fantastic effort by one of rock’s greatest modern bands. Foo Fighters fans and casual listeners alike will enjoy it.
