MUSIC: Black Gives Way to Blue (Alice in Chains)

A few days ago I picked up AIC new album. It’s the first one in since 1995 and the death of the original singer Layne Staley. Now they’re back with new singer, William DuVall, and a similar yet fresh sound. At first most were skeptical of DuVall’s ability (even I had my doubts) but after hearing this album it’s safe to say that AIC’s future is looking very bright.

Although I’ve never really gotten into AIC before and only really listened to more mainstream stuff like “Man in a Box”, “No Excuses”, and “Heaven Beside You”. However I always loved their sound. Like many other bands I enjoy I know when I’m listening to a Chains song. Staley and Starr’s harmonized sound always was a staple in the industry and in musical history. So the first thing the new AIC wanted to focus on was keeping a sound that fans recognized but could still say was different and was great. With DuVall they have greatly accomplished this. The harmonized sections still sound like old Chains however when DuVall is solo you can tell it’s someone else but still a powerful singer who fills the shoes given to him.

Musically, in my opinion AIC hasn’t changed much, which is perfect. Their style of playing with a mix of heavy riffs and acoustic backup always gave them a unique sound. This album is no different. Songs such as “Your Decision” and “Black Gives Way to Blue” just sound amazing. Although in the total of the album I admit that my favorite song still is “Check My Brain”. With it’s heavy riffs and classic harmonizing, the song just comes out and says “we’re new, but we’re still the same guys you fell in love with back then”. I agree.

Lyrically the album is also very accomplished. All songs were thoroughly thought through and written and executed beautifully.


Although AIC has been out of the game for a while, they never lost it. In fact now it seems like they’re riding even higher then before. This album is a definite buy for any rock lover whether it be grunge, metal, or what be you.

+Same sound, but still fresh
+Great Lyrics
+Great Muscianship

We're Back!

Heeeey everyone! Much apologies!
I'm pretty sure you all gave up on me right? We'll no more! I'm back with a fire! I still don't really care who reads this or if anyone reads this. For a while now I've been meaning to do an anime special. So here it is. Here is the planned schedule for the next few posts:

-Cowboy Bebop
-Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
-Baccano
-Black Lagoon
-Elfen Lied
-Fullmetal Alchemist (both the original and a special preview review of Brotherhood!)
-FLCL
-Eden of the East
-K-On!
-Kenko Zenrakei Suieibu Umisho
-Lucky Star
-Negima!
-Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu
-Onegai Teacher
-Ouran Highschool Host Club
-Rosario + Vampire
-Soul Eater
-The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya
-Trigun

Now these won't be in this specific order but Bebop should be soon.
Also I plan on making a special on Music soon. I still need to pick up some new albums. Here's the posting plan:

-Dethklok: Dethalbum 2
-Pearl Jam: Backspacer
-Alice in Chains: Black Gives Way to Blue
-Spinal Tap: Back from the Dead
-Matisyahu: Light

As for movies...Havn't had much chance to catch anything new. Although "Where the Wild Things Are" might be up if I can get some time this weekend.

As for games, I could do a Halo 3: ODST but its already been out for a while so probably not. Although I do plan on picking up Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 so look for that!

Well that's all for now. It's been a while but I'm back now and I'll do my best to make you guys know the truth.

LOVE AND PEACE!
-WK2029

By the way if anyone's interested in knowing about anime you can start around myanimelist.com or animenewsnetwork.com. I'm on M.A.L. so look me up!