One of the most beloved bands out of Canada are back in a big way. The Headstones tested the waters about two (2) years ago by doing scattered dates in February and December of that year. The response was overwhelming. In fact, the band was getting along great and sounded just as well live, so why not go into the studio to see what can come out of it? This album was funded by Pledge Music with donations made by the fans. At the time, this was the first I ever heard of such a thing and now have seen other bands take the same avenue.
“Long Way to Never Land” is a typical track that features just Hugh Dillon’s vocals with interjections of guitar and drums. Carr’s guitar parts get heavier while bassist Tim White and drummer Dale Harrison pick the beat up a notch as the track goes on. Dillon also adds harmonica to this track and it was released as the second single. A good choice I may add!
The up-tempo and “Final Analysis” is driven by Harrison and White. These guys are locked in and loaded but when you listen to the Headstones, you wouldn’t already know that.
“Far Away From Here” is Carr’s baby. His playing differs throughout the song as parts contain crunchy guitar licks and then simple melodic rhythm chords. The band really comes together as a unit during “Don’t Follow the Leader.” Overall, maybe the most complete song on the CD.
The band also does a cover of ABBA’s “SOS.” You’re probably asking yourself, why? Well, the band has been doing it live for a while, so putting it down on a record made sense. Trust me, it’s completely different from what you would expect. They made this song their own and it deserves a listen. “Been This Way for Years” was the first single and it contains some profanity, some loud guitars and a kick ass groove. Pretty much what you’d expect from a great Headstones track.
The punk sounding “Out of My League” has the band shouting the chorus behind Dillon’s quick and direct lyrical content. I’m impressed by the solid release the band pulled off with this CD. Radio friendly hits doesn’t mean the difference between good and bad. What matters is a kick ass rock and roll record and the Headstones delivered it here with “Love + Fury.”
