BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION: V (HARD ROCK): review / opinion to read on Music Waves

While we've been waiting seven years for a successor to “BCCIV”, there was no particular concern about the existence of Black Country Communion. Indeed, the ego problems between Glenn Hughes and Joe Bonamassa, which had led to the split between 2012 and 2017, had long since been resolved, and only the overbooked schedules of the four legends making up the band justified this particularly long delay. It also has to be said that a certain pandemic didn't make things any easier. Fortunately, the interminable wait came to an end with a fifth opus, simply entitled “V”, which once again saw Kevin Shirley in charge of production.

If the recipe remains the same, it's so succulent that it would be a shame to miss out. The quartet's feet are still firmly planted in the 70's, and their classic-hard-rock distills precise doses of groove, funk and soul, sometimes with shades of Led Zeppelin or Deep Purple. 'You're Not Alone' perfectly blends these influences, with its epic yet funky reflections and unstoppable choruses, enriched by a dialogue between organ and guitar.

Heavy, monumental pieces ('Red Sun', 'Love And Faith') alternate with a few straightforward, infectiously energetic firebrands ('Letting Go', 'Too Far Gone'). A moving, bluesy ballad offers the opportunity for an inhabited interpretation by a Glenn Hughes at the top of his game throughout these twelve tracks, while 'Skyway' is reptilian and bewitching. But if each track deserves to be revisited several times to savour its full flavour, it's particularly impressive to see how each member has managed to serve the band without trying to take the spotlight off himself, while remaining dazzlingly talented. The rhythmic pair complement each other perfectly, distilling a distinctive groove, while Derek Sherinian deploys both smoky strings and mouth-watering solos. Finally, Joe Bonamassa multiplies the irresistible riffs and illuminates each jewel with interventions that systematically touch the listener's heart.

Right up to the final fireworks of 'The Open Road', a hard-rocking, funky, soulful track whose infectious groove encourages listeners to replay the entirety of its predecessors, “V” shows no downtime, let alone weakness. Once again, Black Country Communion brings the term “supergroup” back to its rightful place, demonstrating that the heights are always within reach when such talents come together in a collective effort. - Official website

BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION

V

MASCOT LABEL GROUP

HARD ROCK