Soulsavers and Mark Lanegan is a match made in heaven. Soulsavers, Rich Machin and Ian Glover, seem to have a vast musical knowledge and are not restricted by genres. Lanegan has a diverse musical career that includes Screaming Trees, Queens of the Stone Age, collaborations with Isobel Campbell, and Gutter Twins with Greg Dulli. He is not restricted by one singular musical project. The strange mix of Lanegan and Soulsavers is a creative project that seems to have no bounds.

Soulsavers have returned again with Mark Lanegan on Broken. The album is an amazing musical journey and starts out especially strong. ‘Seventh Proof’ is a beautiful instrumental piece with piano and violin. It’s also a subtle reminder to the listener that Soulsavers at its core comprised of Machin and Glover. ‘Death Bells’ follows, featuring not only Lanegan, but Butthole Surfer Gibby Haynes on vocals. The track features dissonant sounds while Lanegan mournfully sings Death Bells are ringing Lord, ringing in my ears. Mark Lanegan is so convincing in his vocals: he is able to convey such bitter and utter sadness, such hopelessness. ‘Unbalanced Pieces’ is a great song that follows, featuring Lanegan and Mike Patton, and sends a message of courage and willingness to face reality. The album continues to have its brave highs and somber lows, and along the way, Soulsavers introduce Red Ghost on vocals. Her voice is also beautiful, yet haunting, especially on “Praying Ground” one of two songs on the album she sings solo. In addition to the guests I’ve already mentioned, Bonnie “Prince” Billy aka Will Oldham, Richard Hawley, and Jason Pierce (of Spiritualized) also made notable contributions to the album.

Soulsavers continue to challenge themselves and are able to produce a great album musically and lyrically. Overall, the album is cohesive and strong on almost every level.

RELATED POSTS:

No related posts.