Black Country Communion – 2 (2011)
When Black Country Communion released their debut album last fall, they sent many rock critics into a frenzy, and much praise was received for their first effort. I was not as enamored with BCC’s debut as my peers, but I thought to myself, “Man, if these guys stick together, they could release something really special”. I just didn’t expect it to happen THIS fast.
Black Country Communion’s new CD “2″, is far better than the debut. Everything has improved on “2″. The song writing, the music, and the vocals are absolutely fantastic. Black Country Communion quickly prove they are here to rock. The album begins with the face-melting anthem, “The Outsider”. The hard-driving riffs of Joe Bonamassa paired with the amazing rhythm section of Glenn Hughes and Jason Bonham is absolutely superb. Glenn Hughes vocals are at the same high level as his days with Deep Purple. To think he sing like this at age “59″ is simply amazing. Hard rock music just doesn’t get BETTER than this.
“Man in the Middle” is another riff heavy rocker that does a good job at keeping the pace of the album going. It is a catchy rocker that grows on you with multiple listens. (Check out “Man in the Middle” in the video below.)
To my ears, the best song on 2 might just be “The Battle For Hadrian’s Wall”. This acoustic number not only shows off the fret work of Bonamassa, but features his vocals as well. The first time I heard this song, it brought Led Zeppelin to mind. I don’t know if Bonamassa is influenced by Jimmy Page or not, but there is definitely a Zeppelinesque feel to this amazing song.
Was Paul Rodgers a stand in on “Ordinary Son” ? This song has a Bad Company like feel to it, although it somewhat heavier than most of Bad Company’s music. Bonamassa and Hughes both share the vocal duties on this impressive tune. I can only imagine that song is an intoxicating experience live.
“Smokestack Woman” is a rockin’ number that should have been released as the first single. This is better tune overall than “Man in the Middle”, and has tons of radio potential.
I am a sucker for good bluesy rock, and Joe Bonamassa’s playing on “Little Secret” is pure blues brilliance. Bonamassa truly shines on this song.
Overall, I am extremely pleased with “2″, and feel it is a much better album than the debut. Black Country Communion shows to the world what the title “supergroup” is supposed to mean. The band has put together an amazing effort with their sophomore release, and is one of the best rock records of 2011. I highly recommend picking up “2″. You won’t be disappointed!
“2″ was released in UK via Mascot Records today, and will be released on Tuesday in the US by J&R Adventures. Don’t miss this!!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
1. The Outsider
2. Man In The Middle
3. The Battle For Hadrian’s Wall
4. Save Me
5. Smokestack Woman
6. Faithless
7. An Ordinary Son
8. I Can See Your Spirit
9. Little Secret
10. Crossfire
11. Cold
Black Country Communion is:
Glenn Hughes – Vocals & Bass
Jason Bonham – Drums
Joe Bonamassa – Guitar & Vocals
Derek Sherinian – Keyboards
“2″ simply justifies the term “supergroup” for BCC!
Rob, as I’ve mentioned in my blog, BCC really deserve the overused accolade ‘supergroup’ simply because they are something greater than the (considerable) sum of their parts. “2″ is a glorious listening experience, and I hope they keep that train a-rollin’ because I sense they can only get better and better!