L.A. GUNS - The Devil You Know
Review by; Diane
The turbulent past of L.A. Guns is well documented, with more ex members than the population of a small state and versions of the band continuously changing, it’s difficult for even the most devoted fan to keep up. For me the true L.A. Guns has to include ex Girl vocalist Phil Lewis and Tracii Guns, the latter being the founder member back in 1983 with a little known vocalist called Axl Rose. Obtaining Gold with albums, ‘LA Guns’ in 1988 and ‘Cocked and Loaded’ in 1990, gave them star status. It was during the tour for the brilliant ‘Hollywood Vampires’ in 1992 that Drummer Steve Riley was sacked and the cracks began to appear. I won’t give you a Guns history lesson, at this point, it’s way too complicated. Let’s just fast forward to 2019, Lewis/Guns have released their 12th Studio Album ‘The Devil You Know’ and the partnership is looking healthy again.
This album begins with the awesome ’Rage’ wow what a riff, no gentle introduction on this one. Tracii Guns is kicking us in the teeth with one of the most extraordinary hooks the Guns have ever dealt us. I have to keep playing it, so this review is going to take me a while!
Released as a single back in January ’Stay Away’ is a more of a steady flow, having a meaner guitar sound and Lewis taking control with his well accustomed pitch. ‘Loaded Bomb’ brings chaotic and up tempo vibes, more catchy vocals and Guns is steadfast with a hook and slide sounding strum, adding another string to his already incredible bow, so to speak. Would it be strange if I said L.A. Guns do Black Sabbath? Because title track ‘The Devil You Know’ could be deemed as an appreciative dedication to the metal gods. Seriously, there is a haunting pounding feel, a slow rumble of bass, crashing drums and a riff Iommi and Butler could have easily penned. Besides all of that, it is stunningly heavy and a fantastic listen.
The smooth and effortless ‘Gone Honey’ is so gentle and easy to take in, it rides along like a Harley on the Freeway. Proves sometimes less is more, it’s simple, but the Lewis/Guns combination has you captivated. ‘Down That Hole’ is more moody, a stranger dark sound. The ballad ‘Another Season In Hell’ starts rather slow and downcast. At over 6 minutes, this has time to grow and the forging of sounds intensifies. By the end you realise yes, that was a pretty impressive number. The last ‘Bonus’ track is ‘Boom’ and is a massive sleaze driven rocker. Fast and with nothing to lose The Guns bow out chanting, accompanied by gutter low licks from Tracii Guns.
It’s great to see this line up producing such a fine album, they still have the capacity to shock and hold your attention. Although a couple of songs could be classed as slightly lacklustre, the overall result is a winner.
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/L.A.GunsOfficial/
Website - https://www.lagunsmusic.com
4/5
L.A. Guns are;
Phil Lewis - Vocals
Tracii Guns - Guitar
Johnny Martin - Bass
Ace Von Johnson - Rhythm Guitar
Scot Coogan - Drums
