The Aristocrats: With Primus Chamber Orchestra

Skeptical? So was I when I heard about this pairing of The Aristocrats with an Orchestra. How was this going to work? Prior to listening, it was difficult for me to imagine what this would sound like, and honestly I almost passed up on buying this one. Opening with “Culture Clash� the title track from the bands 2013 release, my concerns were alleviated. Kudos to Wojtek Lemanski who did the string arrangements, this is working! The orchestra is never in the way or overbearing, but, when called upon they really add to the heaviness which surprised me. In addition, the strings are perfectly placed during the more subtle moments, and truly add to the music. “Stupid 7� from Tres Caballeros confirms that when things get heavy, the Orchestra can play ball, another amazing blend has been achieved. Ok, two tracks in and I am sold, this one cooks! “The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde� gives the orchestra a little nod in the intro, allowing them some time to shine before the band joins in. So, I have discussed the Orchestra quite a bit, but that is because everyone knows the amazing talent of Guthrie, Bryan, and Marco, and they all impress as usual. Govan delivers some mind blowing lead work during “Dance of the Aristocrats�. The 11+ minute “Through The Flower� has some wonderful moments, and is a tour de force for Govan once again, but a slight disappointment with the fade out, as it was really getting powerful towards the end, and the fade is anti-climactic.

Bellar gets some bass time during “All Said And Done� which has a nice melody, and Guthrie adds some great playing, but this one might just be a little too easy, but still enjoyable. Band and Orchestra work so well together, I would love to have an opportunity to experience this live. The final two tracks perfectly close this disc with the high energy of “Ohhhh Noooo� and the gorgeous melodies of “Last Orders�. What started out as a disc I was not sure I’d be interested in has easily become a favorite for 2022.

Track List:

1. Culture Clash
2. Stupid 7
3. The Ballad of Bonnie and Clyde
4. Dance of the Aristocrats
5. Through The Flower
6. All Said And Done
7. Jack’s Back
8. Ohhhh Noooo
9. Last Orders

Added: June 14th 2022
Reviewer: Eric Porter
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
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Language: english

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