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There are many fans that shy away from even their favorite artists when those artists decide to do something a bit different creatively. An artist runs the risk of losing their identity with the fan, and this is an unfortunate reality. In a musical world where so much emphasis is placed upon stereotypical classifications and the division of artistic statements into marketable genres, oftentimes those fans that truly enjoy sonic experimentation are left without as musicians continue on with formulas that have found success in the past.
One of the primary reasons for this injustice is the fact that so few bands are able to successfully perform quality material outside of a box that is generally very minute. When one reflects upon those acts which have been the most successful, it comes to realization that the key to appealing music lies not in a name, style or tone but primarily in the effective delivery of strong music that is solidly written and crafted in a manner so as to appeal to the listener on a fundamental level. This means that the song must incorporate a rhythm that is in direct syncopation with harmony and it must be put forth in a manner which makes sense subconsciously. In other words, the music makes you tap your foot or nod your head along without having to require a substantial measure of thought. The best musicians in the business do not require thousands of dollars of electronic equipment or enormous theatrical setups in order to deliver quality songs. Music is a representation of what is inside of an individual or collection thereof and adept songwriting is a reflection of a refined sense of these named components. Put simply good songs sound good even if they are played on a tin can and a fifty dollar acoustic guitar.
With all of that said, on 'The Other Side', Godsmack offer up a stripped down, bare bones version of their music that is revealing, edgy and undeniably powerful. The power in these seven songs comes not from cranked amplifiers and technical studio magic, but from the soulful, moving performance put forth by the individual band members themselves. Sully Erna's voice comes across very well with this type of material. His impassioned vocalizations are the cornerstone of the Godsmack sound and his rich, resonating voice carries over well into acoustic territory. 'Asleep' is a smooth re-take on the title track from the bands 'Awake' album that highlights Erna's vox, similarly 'Keep Away' is given a retouching to an excellent end. The track sounds even more urgent than its metallized predecessor, its xenophobic message becoming even more provocative when portrayed in this minimalist style.
Drummer Shannon Larkin performs fantastically, as always, showing here that his keen rhythmic sense carries over well into this more mellow material. Larkin is one of the hardest hitting drummers in rock and it is something special to hear his work on these relaxed tracks.
On 'Touché', a song featuring Dropbox members John Kosco and Lee Richard, the group exemplifies a knack for carrying a great hook that is distinct and tuneful. Penned by Erna and Kosco, this song is both captivating and ear catching. The Zeppleinesque 'Voices' resonates with a vibrant vitality while the first single 'Running Blind', which instantly took over radio upon its release drives along with its powerful melody and the transcending vox of Erna.
In the final analysis, Godsmack bring some fantastic music to the table with the release of 'The Other Side'. These songs achieve the fundamental factors necessary to be considered rock solid compositions and will no doubt be staples in the groups live performance for some time to come. Don't let the toned down nature of this music keep you away from this exceptional release as Godsmack have proven with this disc that they can craft material that holds up against the output of the best songwriters in the history of rock music.
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