One of the original rock bands to infuse funk metal, hard rock, blues and psychedelic rock and become a household name is at it again, as legendary rockers Clutch are back with the release of their 11th studio album, Psychic Warfare. The album is a brilliant hard rock album which is both theatrical and gritty, retaining the band's signature sound while reaching a whole new audience in the process.
What's interesting to this reviewer is that the album has a unique influence from science fiction writer Philip Dick, whose influence has always been a part of the band's musical style. The famous science fiction writer's themes always have alluded to reality being a matter of perception, and how the world known to his characters were often far from reality. This theme plays out beautifully in songs such as "X-Ray Visions" on this album. Yet the gritty nature of each song, such as "A Quick Death in Texas", has the feel of an old west tale, setting up a huge theme of a down and dirty showdown between good and evil. These themes and more come to mind with each song on this album, making it one of the most visually stimulating effects a rock album has had in years.
Overall, fans of hard rock infused with funk, blues and psychedelic music will be thrilled with the direction the new album has. It's raw, it's rough and edgy, and it's fantastic. One can easily imagine the good times being had as the music plays at an intimate saloon setting, and fans will be transported to a whole new world as they listen to the album. Clutch's Psychic Warfare is available now, and should be picked up immediately if you haven't already!