What good old American rock is all about. Many bands try to get it right, and get boring instead. There is no gimmick to hide behind. This rock is heartfelt.
Iggy Pop was rock ‘n’ roll personified. He had it all: the songs, the voice, the look, the attitude, the sex appeal, the words… hell, even his name: Iggy Pop.
A Pleasant Shade of Gray is a crystallized dream, an atmospheric wonder filled with the tricky time changes only Fates or Rush could tackle successfully.
The only drawback of the second release by this Hypocrisy side project is there are no dynamics, rather one go-for-the-throat pace established and maintained.
“I’ve been carrying this vital piece of classified intel for days and I’ve got to get it to Ominous-Looking Government Headquarters in Qualico-Over-Quantico!”
Dwarves may have matured in terms of production and musicianship, but spiritually, they’re true to their roots. There isn’t a throwaway track on this record.
If you want the ’70s with a ’90s upgrade, opt for Foreskin 500. If you want some ’90s bands doing ’70s music, think Big Chief and Uncle Joe’s Big Ol’ Driver.