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Degradation Trip Volume 1 & 2
A Trip Worth Taking
by Dogstar
This two-disc set is a must-have for Jerry Cantrell fans. I thoroughly enjoyed the original release of Degradation Trip earlier this year, but was simply blown away by the recent album, all 25 songs released as Jerry originally intended. I simply can't get enough of it. His honest, raw, wear-your-heart-on-your-sleeve lyrics are just breathtaking. This man truly writes from the heart. Musically, Jerry returns to his Alice roots, but with his own spin. The trademark haunting harmonies, chanting, humming and crunching guitar riffs are there in all their splendor.
Jerry Cantrell also is a master of dichotomy. The song "Pig Charmer," a brutally honest assessment of rock-star living, is at once chilling and catchy. The lyrics almost make me want to crawl out of my skin at the same time I am singing the catchy chorus. The instrumental "Hurts Don't It" is a masterpiece of raw emotion. The man has a way of making the guitar speak to you. It's really a crime that RoadRunner records has not done more to promote what I think is hands down THE best rock album of the year. It's a refreshing change from most of the prefab garbage that gets the air play and promotion. Shame on RR for not doing a better job with one of the most influential guitarists/writers of our time. Take the trip. You'll be glad you did.
