It's been roughly 20 years since guitar god Zakk Wylde released his first solo album Book of Shadows, and if you think he's stagnated a bit with his band Black Label Society in that time span, then his return to rootsy, bluesy, melodic Southern Rock inspired by The Allman Brothers Band & Lynyrd Skynyrd will be reason to celebrate. Book of Shadows II picks up right where that release left off, and possibly eclipses it, featuring 14 songs of lush acoustic tones, tasty electric solos (no screaming pinch harmonics here), soulful vocals, and warm Hammond organ. Think of a less raucous Skynyrd, a more laid back Allmans, possibly closest to Gregg Allman's solo material, and that's the place that Wylde is in here. "Lay Me Down", "Autumn Changes", and "Tears of December" feel straight from the heart, the former containing some haunting, emotional vocals and a sizzling lead guitar solo amid some tender chords and smoky organ. Other highlights include the poignant "Lost Prayer", the country tinged "Darkest Hour" (featuring a killer guitar solo), the catchy "Eyes of Burden", and the gorgeous layers of acoustic guitar & catchy hooks of tracks like "Sorrowed Regret" & "Forgotten Memory". The most intriguing piece is saved for last, the mournful "The King", as Zakk's emotional vocals are supported by piano, organ, and strings, his pained delivery falling in between Gregg Allman and Bruce Springsteen. It's a haunting, personal performance, and one of the best on the album.
Book of Shadows II is a welcome return to a side of Zakk Wylde that we don't often see, but we know lurks deep down in his very soul. With a healthy dose of Americana, rootsy Southern Rock, blues, and a bit of country, Book of Shadows II is the type of album you'll want to put on with your loved one close by and a warm fire lit. Gorgeous stuff here.
Track Listing
1) Autumn Changes
2) Tears of December
3) Lay me Down
4) Lost Prayer
5) Darkest Hour
6) The Levee
7) Eyes of Burden
8) Forgotten Memory
9) Yesterday's Tears
10) Harbors of Pity
11) Sorrowed Regret
12) Useless Apologies
13) Sleeping Dogs
14) The King
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
