Audioslave - Out of Exile
Audioslave is a super-group that actually delivered on their self-titled debut album. No one knew how Rage Against the Machine members minus Zach de la Roca would mesh with former Soundgarden frontman, Chris Cornell. The hype was there but usually that yields unmet expectations and dashed potential. I think everyone was pleasantly surprised when the whole thing turned out to be a hit both critically and with fans.
The amazing thing is that lightning struck twice. Audioslave has come “Out of Exile” on their new album. I was surprised to find how fitting and true to that title they really were. Audioslave has managed to make a record that sounds similar to their last while being COMPLETELY different. Cornell suddenly has become a very happy man and has turned into a softy.
This is one happy album, with almost every song being motiviational. The riffs are similar but are a little softer and subtler. I thought Cornell would leave the sap for the trees, or the single in this case. I mean I knew after hearing “Be Yourself” that he turned a little softer than usual. I thought they did this just for radioplay, which is understandable, but I thought they would return to their standard style with the rest of the album. But my shock was hearing two other songs that were filled with just as much sap as “Be Yourself”. “Doesn’t Remind Me” and “Dandelion” are two songs that are completely different than what I have heard from Cornell in the past. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean bad.
There is a good side and a down side to this album. I really enjoy the lighter side of Audioslave, even tho I usually enjoy angrier type music and lyrics. It was a pleasant surprise to hear this from bands (RATM/Soundgarden) that have been known for their darker and grittier style. From a couple listens I don’t even think there is a single curse in the whole album. The downside tho, is that I would like to hear at least one or two songs that were as explosive as “Exploder” (pun intended) and “Set It Off”.
With that all being said I don’t know which of their two albums is better. Its a tough call for me to make. While I think that their self-titled debut contained two or three GREAT songs I think it was lacking on quite a few. However, I think this album is a more complete and mature album. Whatever your opinion you can’t go wrong with either of their albums.
There are a few stand-out tracks that should be mentioned if you want to give them a listen before you buy. “Your Time Has Come” is a great, heavy start to the album followed by the exceptional title track. “Dandelion”, mentioned previously, is a very nice song and altho I don’t like to admit it I really like it. “The Worm” is a swell little diddy of a reformed man that has a heavy riff and is one of the best tracks on the album. The best and last song is “The Curse”. The chorus is by far the best and is a great way to end a great album.
Sidebar: One complaint. I love Tom Morello. I think his style is original and creative. Many have even called him revolutionary when he introduced his style with RATM. However, its not the same anymore. Its not as new and fresh and I hate to think of him becoming a one-trick pony. I want him to get through one song that contains just a plain, simple, old-school solo. Tom, you don’t have to resort to the distorted tapping and scratching that is your trademark EVERYTIME. Just ease up a bit next time. It used to be something that I looked forward to, but it was done too much on this album and it became a bit repetitive.
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