Black Lips200 Million ThousandVice RecordsBThe Black Lips are notorious in the punk scene for their on-stage antics, and across four previous albums, they have fine-tuned that energy to come across in their music. But with 2009’s “200 Million Thousand,” the band has matured a bit and took a smoother route. Their style of “flower punk” shines through in the psychedelic songs’ catchy pop hooks and clever instrument use. The punk grooves bring you back to the ‘60s and make you want to stay.— J. ClappJ.J. CaleRoll OnRounder RecordsB+J.J. Cale’s lazy front-porch blues shuffles have influenced many musicians in the past 40 years — most noticeably Eric Clapton, who covered Cale’s “After Midnight” and “Cocaine.” On his 16th album, “Roll On,” Cale continues the laid-back jam sessions and dusty recording techniques that made him the musician’s musician. “Roll On” doesn’t veer far from Cale’s trustworthy blues formula. His timeless tunes sound just as good now as they did in 1971.— B. LeJeuneSteve WilsonInsurgentesKscope RecordsBIt may take a few listens before “Insurgentes” grows on fans. The first full-length solo album by Porcupine Tree frontman Steve Wilson is an aesthetically pleasing mixture of avant-garde sounds. Known for his production skills, Wilson mixes many styles on this album, blending psychedelic guitars alongside melodic vocals and rhythms. “Insurgentes” sounds like a beautiful combination of many different bands such as Radiohead and Pink Floyd. — J. ChenierKinkyBarracudaKin KonCThese electro-rockers have mastered the addicting beats necessary to keep audiences bouncing, but this album seems a bit under-produced. Kinky is relatively unknown in the United States, with the exception of areas of Texas and California. “Barracuda” doesn’t break any new ground, but is enjoyable. If you’re looking to shake your hips, crank it up. Otherwise, the relentless bass and shoddy production can be a little overpowering. — J. LeBlancLamb of GodWrathEpic/Roadrunner RecordsB-Lamb of God’s sixth release contains much of what listeners would expect — screamed vocals, shredding guitars and blazing tempos. But what may come as a surprise is the band’s cleaner approach to song writing. The band said the guitar tones were cleaner because of its desire for clarity compared to other bands. It shows on tracks like “Grace” and “Reclamation.” Your ears may be ringing for a while, but it offers texture many metal releases lack.— B. BourgeiosMadea Goes to JailThe Tyler Perry CompanyC-“Madea Goes to Jail” is Tyler Perry’s long-awaited movie adapted from the play of the same name. It follows Perry’s famous character “Madea” as her shenanigans finally land her in jail. Mixed with a side story of a prostitute and an assistant district attorney, this comedic drama offers nothing out of the ordinary. Though it is a must for all Perry fans, this film, carried by its humor, might not be the best choice at the movie theater for the majority of moviegoers.— C. Vogels
Reveille Ranks – Feb. 26
February 25, 2009