Customer Reviews

Harmony and Dissidencea

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
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While relegated to more of a sideman for Foo Fighters, hearing Shiflett's surprising knack for memorable riffs and melodies on display here makes one wish his talents were utilized more fully with his main band. It's almost a shame that none of his Jackson United songs get the recognition they would've gotten had they been on one of the recent Foo albums, because they not only would fit right in, but would also make for some great singles.

Shiflett performs capably on vocals and actually carries a tune (although he's much more raw live), and it's great to hear some guitar solos out of him. His brother Scott adds some nice bass work, and drums are of course provided by Taylor Hawkins (the opening track and four others in the second half of the album) and Dave Grohl (the remaining seven). Shiflett also throws in some twists and turns in song structures to keeps things from being formulaic.

"21st Century Fight Song" falls into the punk realm of political rebellion, making an immediate impact with brilliant, addicting riffs and pounding drumwork.

"Undertow" is even better, with a driving rock intro followed by alternating reggae-tinged verses and excellent pop-rock choruses. Shiflett's Clash influences come through here... as does his hat on the cover, perhaps.

"Black Regrets" starts with a midtempo intro before jumping into a wild energetic punk beat provided by Grohl and Shiflett's rapid-fire vocals.

"Lifeboat" has more great guitars and drums, especially during the instrumental bridge.

"Trigger Happy" isn't one of the better songs here, but I like the jangly new wave/New Order guitars.

"White Flag" is a rousing anthem with a galloping beat. The bridge vocal is maybe the closest we actually get to a ballad here.

"Stitching" is equally memorable; a bouncy, almost retro tune that winds down with sweet instrumentals topped off by a delicate piano closing from Rami Jaffee. This and "White Flag" show fleeting signs of Shiflett's potential for crafting the kinds of emotional songs that Grohl has always been a master of.

"The Day That No One Smiled" is another lower-tier song that still has a great throwback sound, this one being in the surf rock category.

"Like a Bomb" is a fun song that starts with handclaps and sounds like something from early Weezer.

This is a more consistent, solid collection than "Wester Ballads," although that had more than its fair share of stand-out songs. And despite his punk roots, this stuff is tight, hooky pop-punk that goes down easy. It almost feels odd finding yourself so ingratiated in what's really just a mere side project.

I loved their last ablum Western Ballads. It was a great CD. His next one is even better! I just love it. And to top it off Dave Grohl and Taylor Hawkins play drums on this Album. The band also features guitarist Doug Sangalang (formerly of Screw 32, Limp and One Time Angels) and Chris's older brother; bassist Scott Shiflett, who made his name as a member of Face to Face.

Here is the Track list:

1. 21st Century Fight Song

2. Undertow

3. Black Regrets

4. Lifeboat

5. Trigger Happy

6. White Flag Burning

7. Stitching

8. The Land Without Law

9. The Day That No One Smiled

10. Damn You

11. Like A Bomb

12. You Can't Have It