By Martine Ehrenclou
Released in the U.S. on August 3rdon Spinefarm Records, British blues rockers, The Temperance Movement, are back with A Deeper Cut, a stunning third album that draws from some of the great rock of the 60s and 70s but with a definite modern spin. A mix of swagger and soul, this band put out a collection of superb songs, each with the band’s unique signature sound and outstanding musicianship.
After a turbulent point in their careers following two acclaimed albums and opening for The Rolling Stones, guitarist Luke Potashnick and drummer Damon Wilson quit the band. The core trio of vocalist Phil Campbell, guitarist Paul Sayer, and bassist Nick Fyffe, enlisted drummer Simon Lea and guitarist Matt White as replacements. More turbulence befell the band as Phil Campbell dealt with drug and alcohol problems.
If overcoming challenges asks a band to rise to its full potential, then The Temperance Movement have definitely succeeded with A Deeper Cut.
Recorded with longtime producer Sam Miller, A Deeper Cut is the sound of a band with a new lease on life. “The plan was to make a rock n roll record with heart and soul” said Phil. “That’s what we do. It was that simple.”
Album opener, “Caught in the Middle” is a kickstart to a great rock record with tightly wound grooves. It’s a catchy, edgy tune with a tight beat and scorching vocals by Phil Campbell. Punctuated by thundering drums and stinging guitar riffs, it’s the perfect introduction to the 12 outstanding tracks.
This is no ordinary rock band.
“Built-in Forgotten” again features the infectious energy of the band, with an unforgettable chorus and stellar guitar solo. It’s a moving tune with a spark of Southern rock. The Temperance Movement have managed to create and maintain their own brand of unique, contemporary rock.
The title track, “A Deeper Cut” captures stellar songwriting and execution by the band, complete with Campbell’s honest and soulful vocals. This song, and the album itself, might remind you of a time when songs meant something, nicked you someplace deep.
With a touch of swamp, “Backwater Zoo” rocks with Southern rock flair, but think contemporary guitar licks and rock and roll stomp. The lyrics, however, speak of something darker, not unlike some of the other tracks on the album.
Some bands soar on rocking tracks that drive the energy of the record as a whole and then wain on ballads. The Temperance Movement shines brightly on both. The rock ballad, “Another Spiral” is a beautifully written song about offering open arms when darkness is near. It includes interesting chord changes, rolling rhythms and Campbell’s moving vocals to bring this one home. Nothing beats raw talent.
“The Way It Was And The Way It Is Now,” is another standout track, inspired with more interesting chord changes, outstanding vocals, and a tight rhythm section. Did I mention the ripping guitar solo? Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.
“Higher Than The Sun,” showcases Campell’s rhythmic vocal phrasing and the band’s ability to rock it mid-tempo. After the lyrics, “A deafening silence, another two years up in smoke, all out of solutions around the time I start to choke,” a distorted guitar solo underscores the warning. Mining past challenges for the good of the song seems to be one of this band’s many talents on A Deeper Cut.
Closing out the album is “The Wonders I’ve Seen,” revealing a softer side to the band and Campbell’s vocals. He sings this tune with passion and restraint. An honest love song you won’t soon forget and a brilliant tune to round out the record.
A Deeper Cut showcases the band’s ability to regroup and distill their sound in the face of adversity. The album is full of swagger, punch, excellent musicianship and memorable tracks.
For more information on A Deeper Cut and The Temperance Movement:
Great song
Great band, looking forward to their latest release. And a fantastic band to see live.