Queens of the Stone Age – Era Vulgaris

Artist: Queens of the Stone Age
Album: Era Vulgaris
[Universal;2007]

Queens of the Stone Age are one of the most rhythmic and influential hard rock bands out there. Long-time QOTSA fans are sure to get a surprise from the group’s fifth album, Era Vulgaris.

Josh Homme and the other boys in the band have moved away from the dark and heavy tones of their early work and crafted a record full of fuzzed-out guitars vocal harmonies instead. Although there are still hard, chunky guitar riffs, there’s more of a glam-rock feel to this album. It’s more danceable and less heart-pounding. Even the album cover, dominated by pinks and purples, is brighter.

All of these new elements don’t mean that QOTSA have gone soft or weak. The album is still creative, unique and overflowing with Homme’s talent.

Two of the strongest tunes on the record are “Into the Hollow” and “3s & 7s.” “Sick, Sick, Sick” is an energetic and solid rock tune that features The Strokes Julian Casablancas on vocals. With a hypnotic drumbeat and industrial background noise, “Misfit Love” builds tension and anticipation during the two minutes that it takes for the song to warm up. At nearly six minutes long, it’s a pure rock ‘n’ roll epic.

Era Vulgaris may not get you hooked immediately, but you’ll want to give it time. It’s the kind of album you’ll want to play again and again. You’re sure to hear something new to love every time you put it on. — TB

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