Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Howl Full Album
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, often abbreviated as BRMC, is a rock band formed in San Francisco in 1998. The group consists of Peter Hayes, Robert Levon Been, and Leah Shapiro. BRMC has released eight studio albums so far, and one of their most popular and critically acclaimed albums is Howl, released in 2005.
What is Howl?
Howl is the third studio album by BRMC, and it marked a departure from the band's earlier, more electric sound. The album is heavily influenced by blues, gospel, and country music, and features stripped-down arrangements with acoustic guitars, harmonicas, and tambourines. Howl was recorded in Tennessee and produced by Ethan Johns, known for his work with Ryan Adams, Kings of Leon, and Laura Marling, among others.
The album's title comes from Allen Ginsberg's poem "Howl," and the album's lyrics are often cryptic and introspective, dealing with themes such as love, loss, faith, and redemption. The album cover features a black and white photo of a wolf, which became a symbol of the band's raw and primal sound.
Tracklist
Howl consists of 13 tracks, each with its own unique flavor and mood. Here's the full tracklist:
- "Shuffle Your Feet"
- "Howl"
- "Devil's Waitin'"
- "Ain't No Easy Way"
- "Still Suspicion Holds You Tight"
- "Fault Line"
- "Promise"
- "Weight of the World"
- "Restless Sinner"
- "Gospel Song"
- "Complicated Situation"
- "Sympathetic Noose"
- "The Line"
Each song on Howl showcases the band's versatility and songwriting skills, and the album as a whole feels cohesive and organic.
Reception
Howl was met with critical acclaim upon its release, with many critics praising the band's new direction and sound. The album has a score of 78 out of 100 on Metacritic, indicating "generally favorable reviews." Pitchfork called it "an album of uncommon grace and depth," while Rolling Stone said it was "a bold reinvention of the band's sound that pays off in spades."
Howl also performed well commercially, reaching number 70 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 31 on the UK Albums Chart. The album's lead single, "Ain't No Easy Way," became a radio hit, and the band's fanbase continued to grow.
Legacy
Howl remains a beloved album among BRMC fans, and it's often cited as one of the band's best works. The album's stripped-down sound and raw emotion have influenced many other artists, and songs like "Ain't No Easy Way" and "Shuffle Your Feet" have become staples of the band's live shows.
BRMC continues to tour and release new music, but Howl remains a high watermark in their career. If you're a fan of rock music, especially blues and country-infused rock, Howl is a must-have album that you won't regret adding to your collection.