JERRY CANTRELL
"Degradation
Trip" (Roadrunner; 2002)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
Jerry Cantrell's latest solo excursion is remarkable for a number of reasons:
1) It's a great listen. "Degradation Trip" is the kind of record you like from the very first time you spin it. The songs are well-written and expertly performed. Jerry's voice and guitars sound great. Plus, he's got Metallica's Robert Trujillo on bass and Mike Bordin (Ozzy Osbourne) on drums. The production is exquisite. Although the unique Alice In Chains sound is apparent throughout, Cantrell's unique spin and obvious freedom in creating a solo album shines through. "Degradation Trip" gives listeners a full 72 minutes of great rock'n'roll, without a hint of filler or lesser material. "Anger Rising" is probably the hottest track on the CD, with a killer riff and an irresistible chorus running through it.
2) It's a very personal and honest recording. The lyrics are a window into the life, pains and mind of Jerry Cantrell, yet poetic enough not to be painfully obvious and overwrought.
3) It's also available in a two-disc set containing both discs and all 25 tracks of the original recording, cut to one disc and re-sequenced by the record company when the CD was originally released. Reviewed here is only the initial, single disc release. However, one can only imagine how much even more complete the experience would be with an entire second disc of music. And don't waste your time just buying the single version. After hearing this one, you'll want the two disc set anyway so just order it in the first place and save yourself some cash.
"Degradation Trip" is a complete and utter success. Fans of Alice in Chains will want the two disc set on their shelves immediately.
Performing on "Degradation Trip" are: Jerry Cantrell - guitars, vocals; Robert Trujillo - bass; Mike Bordin - drums. Additional percussion by Walter Earl. Additional guitars on "Anger Rising" by Chris DeGarmo.
For more information, check out http://www.jerrycantrell.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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Revised: 28 Feb 2021 15:51:09 -0500.
