Much to the delight of Berzerkers everywhere, Black Label Society has recently released their tenth full length studio album, “Grimmest Hits.” Despite the title, the new record is not a greatest hits release but features twelve all new tracks by Zakk Wylde and company.
The record starts off with “Trampled Down Below,” with a brutal groove and Zakk’s signature vocals and the heavy blues of “The Betrayal.” With long term bassist John DiServio, drummer Jeff Fabb, and guitarist Dario Lorina at the top of their game, Black Label Society has never sounded better. Zakk’s Sabbath influence runs heavy throughout the record with the “Iron Man” Tony Iommi style on “Disbelief” and the old school Sabbath feel on “Bury Your Sorrow.” Wylde’s vocals on “Al That Once Shined” are outstanding and really reminded me of early Alice In Chains, almost channeling the late Layne Staley’s performance on “The Rooster.” Don’t miss the soulful vocals and bluesy guitar work on the acoustic ballad “The Only Words.” We all know that Zakk can shred with the best of them but I really love his tender side with his contemplative solos that serve as a secondary vocal in the song. Another great ballad is heard with the southern rock style of “The Day That Heaven Had Gone Away” and “Illusions of Peace” is anything but with a heavy riff and blistering guitars.
“Grimmest Hits” is another excellent record from BLS, full of heavy rocking grooves mixed with warm, heartfelt melodies. Hats off to Zakk and Black Label Society for steadfastly keeping it real and helping to keep heavy music alive and well.
