Record Review: Mark Lanegan

by | May 7, 2012 | Reviews

Mark Lanegan
Blues Funeral
New York, NY
(4AD)

“Sin-soaked growl and lyrics brimming with mystical, surrealist imagery”

Those who have followed Mark Lanegan throughout the course of his multifaceted career have, without a doubt, recognized a timeless quality in his signature bluesy baritone. Blues Funeral is so majestic that is appears to be from a different realm entirely.  Since becoming a solo artist, the former Screaming Trees frontman has attracted quite the following.  If there were one adjective to describe Lanegan’s seventh record, it would be “intense.”

The heart-pounding drumbeat of the album’s opener, “The Gravedigger’s Song,” beckons listeners forth into a world that is ferocious, rocking, atmospheric, and bluesy.  There is something to be said for the way the prolific Lanegan effortlessly explores the musical map, paying homage to his own influences while developing a style all his own.  Blues Funeral delves deep into humanity.  Lanegan, the soul-searcher and truth-seeker, holds the lantern light at the entrance of the tunnel, waiting to navigate both himself and listeners through its shadowy but enlightening passageways.

From here on, chills abound with the haunting “St. Louis Elegy,” which brilliantly marries the voices of Lanegan and Greg Dulli, (Twilight Singers) together once more.  Admirers of the two will find much to love here amongst profound lyrics: “If tears were liquor, I’d have drunk myself sick.”  Even the window-rattling, electronic “Quiver Syndrome” is indicative of Lanegan’s willingness to push boundaries.

Recorded, Mixed and Produced by Alain Johannes at 11AD

www.marklanegan.com