SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: SHINEDOWN – EI8HT

SHINEDOWN
EI8HT
ATLANTIC RECORDS

Hard-hitting Florida rockers Shinedown have released their eighth studio album appropriately titled Ei8ht, and it packs just as much of a punch as over the past two decades with the band has.

“Safe and Sound,” the track that marks their 23rd number one single, is like a kick back to “Sound of Madness” and “Devour” vibes we love from Shinedown. Barry Kerch punches us as always with his thunderous drums, reiterating the song’s message that everyone eventually must face consequences and it’s no surprise that guitarist Zach delivers yet another heart and soul packed solo.
“Searchlight” is an emotional story about saying goodbye to your childhood and stepping into independence and finding yourself and your place in the world. Shinedown stepped out of their comfort zone and into the country music space, keeping it rock, while tossing in bits of country music elements, including a steel guitar, banjo and a fiddle, without the twang that you get from traditional country music. Simply put, the “Dance, Kid, Dance” track is a punky, funky song with fun lyrics and a catchy chorus that gives the upcoming tour its name.

Frontman Brent Smith and the amazing, multi-talented guitarist and producer Eric Bass serenade us with an appreciative duet, with Bass on the piano. “So Glad That You Asked” is my favorite because of the standout lyrics and of course, Eric Bass’s magical piano playing. If you’ve ever been to one of their shows, you know. Close your eyes and you can almost see that piano descending from the ceiling, Bass’s hands flowing across the keys while Smith stands by as both of their vocals blend into an actual feeling.

Having lost someone very close to me, I really feel “Three Six Five” in a big way. It almost feels as though it was written just for my situation, which makes it my second favorite tune on the album.

This album is packed with four of their 23 number-one hits. Eighteen tracks is a bit much for an album, but all 18 of them are filled with pure human emotion, as with every single album before this one.

Artist Links