"Uplifter"

This week, 311 was streaming their brand new album "Uplifter" on their MySpace page, and I spent all day Tuesday and Wednesday listening to it, over and over...

Most of the guys in the band and I have been diehard 311 fans since at least 93, and I'm constantly pleased with every new album they come out with for one reason or another (Uplifter is their 9th studio album - not including a greatest hits, a live album, and the Omaha Sessions). Although they've clearly lost the ability to REALLY throw down the heavy metal, there's still plenty of good hard rock on the new album, and most of the music is really well done. The singing also continues to get better and better - especially the harmonies (they're using a lot more 3 and 4-part harmonies which sound amazing). The older these guys get, the more they seem to be perfecting the chill, groovy, reggae/jazz that they're so so good at. My current top 5 songs on Uplifter are as as follows:

1) It's Alright
2) Two Drops in the Ocean
3) Never Ending Summer
4) Golden Sunlight
5) Daisy Cutter

Those 5 are the most radio friendly, I think - but just like with any 311 album, the weakest song on the album could end up being the BEST song when you see them live. Either way, I'm just glad 311 continues to make music and explore new sounds and styles with every new album. Go check it out when it's released on June 2nd!

ROCK/ROLL,
Matt