Black Rebel Motorcycle Club Specter At The Feast
If you're a fan of rock music, you're probably familiar with Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (BRMC). The band, consisting of Peter Hayes, Robert Levon Been, and Leah Shapiro, has been making music for over two decades. Their sixth studio album, Specter At The Feast, was released in 2013, and it's still considered one of their best works to date.
The Making Of Specter At The Feast
The making of Specter At The Feast was a challenging process for the band. Robert Levon Been's father, Michael Been, was the sound engineer for BRMC and had been touring with them for years. However, during the recording of Specter At The Feast, Michael passed away from a heart attack. The loss of his father deeply affected Robert and the rest of the band, and it shows in the album's emotional and introspective themes.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the band continued to work on the album. They recorded the album at Dave Grohl's Studio 606 in Northridge, California, with a focus on live recordings rather than overdubbing. This approach gave Specter At The Feast a raw and authentic sound that showcases the band's musicianship.
The Sound Of Specter At The Feast
Specter At The Feast is a departure from BRMC's earlier works that were heavily influenced by blues and garage rock. Instead, the album leans towards a more atmospheric and psychedelic sound. The album opener, "Fire Walker," sets the tone for the rest of the album with its haunting guitar riffs and Peter Hayes' melancholic vocals.
The album's second track, "Let The Day Begin," is a cover of The Call's song, and it's a tribute to Robert Levon Been's late father, who was a member of the band. The cover is faithful to the original but with BRMC's signature sound, making it a standout track on the album.
Other notable tracks on the album include "Hate The Taste," a hard-hitting rock song with a catchy chorus, and "Returning," a slow-burning ballad that showcases the band's ability to create emotional and atmospheric music.
The Reception Of Specter At The Feast
Specter At The Feast received critical acclaim upon its release. Many critics praised the album's mature and introspective themes, as well as its raw and authentic sound. The album also performed well commercially, reaching number 43 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The album's success can be attributed to the band's willingness to experiment with their sound while staying true to their roots. Specter At The Feast is a testament to BRMC's musicianship and songwriting abilities.
Conclusion
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club's Specter At The Feast is a must-listen for any fan of rock music. The album's emotional and introspective themes, combined with its raw and authentic sound, make it a standout work in the band's discography. Despite the difficult circumstances surrounding its making, Specter At The Feast is a testament to the band's resilience and creativity.