Rough Edge: Buttonhook CD Reviews

BUTTONHOOK

"Hear Me Roar" (Rough Stone Records; 2005)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

Buttonhook's "Hear Me Roar" is the kind of record you can play anyplace, anytime. It's heavy enough to bang your head to, but melodic enough to sing along with. There aren't a lot of CDs that boast both of those qualities these days and that only makes "Hear Me Roar" sound even better.

Combining the heavy thump of stoner rock with an alternative-leaning edge, "Hear Me Roar" is a solid rock CD that never fails to entertain. Don't get me wrong -- this isn't grunge, but rather a modern rock record that doesn't sacrifice power in favor of trying too hard to sound modern.

More than any other band I can think of Buttonhook's "Hear Me Roar" reminds me of Soundgarden. Those who, like me, think that Soundgarden called it quits way too early in the game will find something to their liking on this CD.

Anyway, how bad can any CD that includes drink recipe be? (See the back of the CD insert for the "Buttonhook cocktail recipe).

Buttonhook: Roman Carson - all lead vocals; backing vocals and harmonica; Mike Gaudreau - lead, rhythm, and acoustic guitars; Brian Lewis - bass; Chris Phillips - drums.

For more information, check out www.buttonhook101.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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