Soul Asylum – 鈥楧elayed Reaction鈥�
A good friend of mine maintains a strong affection for rock bands we both enjoyed during the 1980s and 1990s. Shortly after Soul Asylum released “Delayed Reaction,” I received the anticipated email from my friend asking about the release’s quality. The 10th studio release from the Minneapolis band is the first since 2006’s underwhelming “The Silver Lining.” Soul Asylum co-founders Dave Pirner and Dan Murphy deliver the band’s best release since 1992’s triple-platinum “Grave Dancer’s Union.” While the new album may not contain another “Runaway Train,” it does offer plenty of above average selections more closely resembling “Somebody to Shove” and “Black Gold.” It opens with the hard-driving “Gravity,” fueled by Murphy’s fiery guitar playing and Pirner’s signature raspy vocals. “Into the Light” follows with infectious hooks and power-pop flare as Pirner sounds like he’s still having a blast after all these years singing, “Best day ever just got better/It gets better still.” “The Streets” finds Pirner maintaining a Joey Ramone tempo as he frantically muscles and screams through the guitar-driven love song.
In an ear-catching change of pace, the veteran rockers perform a slow, moody, crooner in “Cruel Intentions” as the piano replaces the crunchy guitar with Pirner sounding as if he’s playing a Las Vegas lounge.
Oddly, it’s a refreshing surprise that shows the band is willing to throw listeners a curveball every now and then just to keep things interesting. “Take Manhattan” quickly returns the high energy level with hook heavy “The Juice” and “Take Manhattan.”
The album closes with the dark overtones of “I Should’ve Stayed in Bed,” bringing a slightly depressing finale to an otherwise upbeat vibe. The production of “Delayed Reaction” is clear and crisp, spotlighting the group’s still fresh and vibrant sound after nearly 30 years of performing.
“Delayed Reaction” proves the band continues to possess the chops to remain a relevant rock band to the satisfaction of my friend and longtime fans everywhere.