Following their recent tour with the dynamic duo of Samantha Fish and Jesse Dayton, Canadian outfit The Commoners return to the fold with their new album Restless.
Even before the album has been released The Commoners have already received strong indications that their new album is going to do well, with several of the tracks receiving radio airplay and playlisting from the likes of Planet Rock.
The album gets underway with the infectious sounds of Devil Teasin’ Me. The latter received over 100 plays from Planet Rock, and upon first listen it’s easy to understand why. The song oozes soul and is dripping with vintage guitar riffs.
The opening guitar licks of Shake You Off immediately grabs your attention. In places it reminds you of classic tracks from bands like The Black Crowes. It’s no wonder why it was chosen as a single, it certainly hits the spot.
The rather harmonious second single The Way I Am, sits in third position on the record, and continues a very strong opening to the release.
The title track itself is a slightly mellower slide-fuelled number, with all the hallmarks of a southern/roots rock classic in the making.
Gone Without Warning and Who Are You follow are barnstorming honky tonk rock and roll numbers that are sure to be crowd favourites when performed live.
Body and Soul showcases a slightly slower side to the album. Emotive guitar riffs resonate throughout the opening stages of this slow burner with perhaps undertones of Zeppelin.
The acoustic intro to See You Again changes the pace, as the album ebbs and flows. And after all that rocking and rolling up to this point in the record, it’s a nice change of pace and a beautiful ballad.
The album concludes with Too Soon To Know and the spellbinding All That We Have.
What can I say. Restless is an album which is all killer and no filler. After listening to this album, the only decision left is to buy a ticket for the band’s upcoming UK tour. On the strength of this album, the thought of missing out on the band’s forthcoming shows makes me feel Restless.
Review by Adam Kennedy
