Rock N Roll Jesus

by

Kid Rock

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Kid Rock's new album isn't as revolutionary as the artist and title proclaim; yet it IS rather pleasing, and is indeed a bit maturer than much of Rock's previous work. The only hints of the rock/rap that will haunt him 'til the day he dies are found in "Sugar" and "Don't Tell Me U Love Me"--and even then, both songs stand testiment to the fact that Rock doesn't distinguish between musical boundaries. You have to respect him for that, if nothing else.

The album's strength, like it's two immediate predessecors, lies in its southern rock backbone. Nowhere is this more clear than on "All Summer Long," a melodical melding of Skynyrd's "Sweet Home Alabama" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London" (the opening riff makes me wish Rock would record "Werewolves;" honestly, he would tear that song up--in a good way). The country blues of "New Orleans" (a co-write with the one and only David Allan Coe) is another joyous sing-along, and one of Rock's most enjoyable tunes in a long time. "Amen" gets a bit too serious, but it is still enjoyable; naturally, Rock makes controversial declarations like "God d*** it, I'm afraid to send my kids to church" and "Our nation's race relations got me feelin' guilty for bein' white." The stone-cold country of "Half Your Age" helps convey the songs hilarious--and scathing--message. "Blue Jeans and a Rosary" touches upon gospel vibes, as does the previously-mentioned "Amen." Even the title track, though lyrically unoriginal, is catchy and listenable.

To me, this is Kid Rock's third record. I know, he had a career before COCKY; but here we see a man evolving musically and lyrically. While he still isn't at the creative high he insists he is, Kid Rock has managed to transcend genres, and to create some truly memorable music. ROCK N ROLL JESUS is a great album, if only for the fact that you can't easily place it in one musical category. While I don't recommend worshipping Rock for that, I do suggest we pay him some respect, and lend him our ears. Preach on, brother.

As Kid Rock quips on the album, he's 36 years old and still having fun. Glad to hear it. I've been a fan of the Kid and his creative fusion of rock and hip hop from the early days. On this effort, however, many of the songs sound contrived - or maybe I'm just uncomfortable with Kid Rock getting serious on topics like religion and war (e.g., Amen). 'So Hott' has a dirty guitar groove and unforgettable opening lyric - yet gets spoiled by the unnecessary f-bomb in the chorus. 'Sugar' sounds like the re-hash of the formula used on 'Cowboy' and just doesn't deliver.

My favorite song is 'All Summer Long," which is has a feelgood vibe and Sweet Home Alabama sample. 'When You Love Someone' is also a nice song on the softer side.

Overall, this album will appeal more to fans of southern rock than to those craving in-your-face party jams.