NICKELBACK
SILVER SIDE UP
SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
The dark side of life is reflected throughout the lyrical content of this release. However, do not let that keep you from this amazing piece of rock musicology. The band is able to keep the pounding, strumming and punch power rock alive, letting the lyrics become the venting opportunity. This is not a cry-me-a-river vent, it is "see where we were and that we survived and are better for the experience but never have to go back".
Opening with "Never Again" sets the pace for strong lyrical content while addressing social issues that maintain the foundation of a lot of families. This is a very radio-friendly, ear candy driven CD that seems geared to grab the listener with a full package deal. The guitar riffs are hard rock based but not overpowering, which will be great appeal for the radio listener. The band bring so much to the table during recording sessions but keeps a strong foundation of rock oriented tracks.
This band will not have a sophomore slump as they progress at a natural pace, allowing them time to develop. Chad's vocals have impact on each track which could have allowed him to direct the band to an even heavier sound. This would have been great for the heavier crowd but the exposure is so much larger, keeping themselves radio friendly with an edge.
It will be hard to find a bad or lame song on this disc because from the first track until the disc ends with "Good Times Gone", the rock continues. The initial listen only makes for another and the cycle continues as it is not boring and soon shuffle can be used to mix it up. Kroeger and crew have been blessed with great writing talent that gets better like fine wine with each release.
11/29/10
RUSTY
9/11/01