The Lords of Altamont have unleashed their first live album, To Hell With Tomorrow The Lords Are Now!, offering a unique live experience recorded in the studio rather than on stage. Founded in late 1999 by Jake "The Preacher" Cavaliere, The Lords of Altamont have undergone numerous lineup changes, including the late Michael Davis of MC5. With this album, Cavaliere and his current bandmates deliver a high-energy, raw rock 'n' roll experience reminiscent of Live at the BBC or Peel Sessions. The band selected songs that represent their journey over the past 23 years, and the album was recorded quickly, with a no-nonsense approach. Eschewing gimmicks, To Hell With Tomorrow The Lords Are Now! captures the essence of The Lords of Altamont's live performances, providing listeners with an authentic rock experience.
What Worked
High energy garage rock and roll reminiscent of bands featuring Scott Morgan (of Sonics' Rendezvous Band and The Solution), and channeling the high energy of proto-punks The Stooges and MC5. Raw and raucous, the live aspect keeps these songs honest as they're presented in the best possible way. Fans of bands like The Hellacopters and Danko Jones will find plenty to enjoy, from the stomping gang chorus vocal of "Going Nowhere Fast" to the Mudhoney-esque "Action." The secret weapon on most tracks is the organ, filing in the small gaps and adding a subtle layer of noise to counter the raucous band.
What Didn't Work
There really isn't much to complain about if action rock is your thing. Some might find the relatively simplistic lyrics and arrangements to be underwhelming, but the joy in rocking out should negate any downside.
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