Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue

To track the evolution of a band’s sound, just take a look at their support history.

In 2002, Danko Jones were the opening act for the Rolling Stones – instant rock and roll certification.

Support slots for the likes of Flogging Molly, The Dirtbombs, The Bronx, and ex-Kyuss frontman John Garcia followed, and the band had rock punk credibility in spades.

Then in 2008 they opened for Nickleback – a moment that perfectly encapsulates the gradual commercialisation of Danko Jones.

Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue was the band’s chance to return to a genuine rock sound, but “Terrified” is a lacklustre opening track.

The vocal styling, with prolonged notes and minor chord melodies, don’t suit Jones’ voice, and the effect is dark and dull.

“Get Up”, with its energetic guitar riffs, would have been a better opener, although the chorus is littered with god-awful backing vocals.

“Legs” tries hard with its solid guitar fuzz and Motley Crue feel, but in the rock and roll pantheon there’s only one “Legs” and ZZ Top took that crown years ago.

There’s nothing to be said about “I Don’t Care” that can redeem its woeful lyrics, and the brazen AC/DC riff thievery on “Always Away” is unforgiveable.

In contrast, “The Masochist” is heavier, swampier, The Bronx-inspired, and one of the album’s best moments.

Danko Jones play to a formula, banging out three chord rock heavily influenced by Thin Lizzy, Motorhead, et al.

They’ve always been undeniably cheesy, but on earlier records the clichés were perfectly balanced with a rough, raw sound. Sadly, there’s just not enough of that raw aesthetic on Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue.

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