Baroness
Blue Record

After creating two EPs that captivated critics and allowed the group to build a small but loyal following, Baroness, a quartet from Savannah, Georgia, led by singer and guitarist John Baizley (who, besides writing most of the band's songs, also created their album covers), made their official debut in 2007 with the release of the "Red Album" under Relapse Records. The album completely divided audiences and critics: on one hand, some considered the group the new revelation of the U.S. metal scene (the heavy metal magazine Revolver named "Red Album" album of the year), while others saw them simply as yet another clone of Mastodon, who had released the acclaimed "Blood Mountain" that very year.

High expectations formed around Baroness, and many began to wonder if they would be able to replicate their success or if they would fade into oblivion. In 2009, the "Baroness" thus reached the release of their second effort. "Blue Record" confirms the strengths of its predecessor and highlights a mature and effective songwriting that was merely hinted at in the "Red Album": precise and technical guitar riffs, a powerful rhythm section capable of creating a formidable wall of sound. It's hard to give a specific definition of the genre the four play. The work stands out for its heterogeneity, ranging from sludge metal to stoner, even touching on elements of progressive and reaching peaks of psychedelic rock. Powerful and direct tracks reminiscent of the Mastodon of Leviathan ("The Sweetest Curse" and "War, Wisdom and Rhyme") alternate with instrumental parts influenced by Metallica's teachings in "Orion." A more pronounced attention to melody is what most differentiates "Blue Record" from its predecessor, evident from the first listen of "Jake Leg," "A Horse Called Golgotha" (the song chosen as the single to promote the album), and "Steel That Sleeps The Eye," an acoustic track rich in choirs that fully blooms in all its melodic beauty in "Swollen and Halo."

The only discordant note that might be made about the album is the vocals: too monotonous and too close to Mastodon's style (the voice eerily resembles Troy Sanders'). To understand its full potential and nuances, the album requires numerous listens before it can truly win you over. In conclusion, what can be said about these Baroness? Are they really the breakout band of the metal scene? Almost certainly not (or at least not yet). Baroness is simply a very interesting band with an enviable artistic maturity for many bands that are only on their second album. Fans of the genre and particularly fans of Mastodon will appreciate this band, full of talent with great prospects for the future. While waiting for the third album and their definitive consecration, enjoy this "Blue Record."