Album Review: BlackHawkDown - Chapter One
Reviewed by Neil Bolton
With BlackHawkDown (yes it is all one word) hailing from the yellow stone town of Stamford in Lincolnshire UK, the epicentre of the wool trade, you would hope that the band could produce something as warm and natural. Thankfully BlackHawkDown have not reneged on this.
As with most first tracks on a debut album 'Faces' should be seen as a statement of intent. It is a demonstration of their songwriting talents and musical skills. A powerful rocky riff is the beat that carries this tune, assisted by the very capable vocals of Ben Yardley. He has a sturdy vocal delivery that complements the rocky sound perfectly. Then we have the majestic guitar solo that begins after a small but distinct break allowing you to prepare for it, and then enjoy it.
A slower, but by no means boring, pace manifests with the second tune. Yardley’s vocals still edgy and robust are obviously dealing with a personal demon as all the best tunes should. The enjoyable rock style continues into 'Matchstickmen' and 'Simplify' with drums taking a bit of limelight with the latter, followed by a knowing laugh before we almost go full thrash metal (almost). Andy McGurk’s guitar work once again solos with style and panache.
'Poison in the Blood' has a ballad type feel to it, but it still contains a riff as beefy as cow pie. Lyricist and vocalist Ben is not afraid to hold the action in most tracks and some of these contain obvious anger in his voice. This collection of songs means a lot.
As I get further into the album I begin to form my only minor gripe with this album, and that is I feel the soloing talents of guitarist McGurk are not left to soak up as much sun as the vocals. When this guy does rip it up it is a glorious sound; I for one would like to hear and enjoy more of. BlackHawkDown have a sound that takes the listener to a beer soaked biker bar, with rockers from all corners of the spectrum enjoying a beefy, rocky evening; nodding their heads to the beat of the music.
