
Quite often, a new band will come along with a stunning debut album, only to have each subsequent release steadily decline in quality. That is not the case for acoustic rockers Tantric, who 15 years and 5 albums into their career, have managed to release an album that is destined to elevate them to a whole new level. Much like the “Black” album did for Metallica. The new album “37 Channels” is evocative, articulate and uncompromised. It’s also, hands down the best thing this band has done in their illustrious career.
Formed in 1998, after an abrupt dismissal from Days Of The New, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The band’s debut album recieved critical acclaim and contained 3 hit singles. Over the years, the band has gone through a myriad of line-up changes. The only remaining and constant member is lead singer Hugo Ferreira. Who says the new album “mines the soul” and is the soundtrack inside his head. He has surrounded himself with a very impressive list of exceptional guest musicians and has assembled an even more impressive list of incredibly well written songs.
The signature guitar groove of opener “Again” is trademark Tantric, reminiscent of “Down And Out.” “Blue Room” is another track that features that unmistakable Tantric sound. Lead single “Mosquita” is a groove laden crossover smash, that may be the heaviest country song ever written or recorded. The hook filled “Gravity,” blends Allman Brothers with 3 Doors Down and has an infectiously catchy chorus. While the thought provoking “Loss For Words” is a poignant stripped down acoustic number.
The soaring choruses of “Where Do We Go From Here” bring to mind Sick Puppies and the alluring hooks of “Rise,” would fit right in on Shinedown’s “Sound Of Madness” cd. “Broken,” is a powerhouse rocker that should please Creed and Alter Bridge fans. “You Got What You Wanted,” pairs Fuel with Theory Of A Deadman and is sure to be a monster hit. Hinder and Saving Abel fans are going to love the heart wrenching piano ballad “Fault.” A song that should dominate the airways, once it’s released as a single.
From here the album shifts gears with the Uncle Kracker meets Cavo good time vibe of “My Turn.” “Bullet” is another straight up, in your face rocker that reminds me of Buckcherry and Blackstone Cherry. The disc closes with the hauntingly beautiful “Girl In White.” A track that combines Staind and Alice In Chains with a lush string section.
Here’s the bottom line. Buy Buy Buy!!! It is rare to find a cd this good from start to finish by any artist, in any genre. With so many gifted guest musicians and such a strong collection of well crafted, songs this album is in the running for album of the year.
9.5 out of 10.
Eric Hunker