So, is it Guns N' Pilots or Stone Temple Roses? Actually, it's neither.
The group's debut album, Contraband, seems to be an attempt to become the new millennium's answer to mainstream rock: a marriage of late '80s hard rock and the '90s grunge sound that somehow truly does not sound like its members' former bands. At times, Weiland produces some STP-ish vocal styles, but that's about it.
"Sucker Train Blues," a high-energy track, kicks off the album. McKagan's swaggering bass lines mixed with Sorum's powerful drum style and Slash's signature mini-solos highlight the tune.
"Fall to Pieces" is a modern power-ballad that is sure to be an arena rock favorite that will make the ladies swoon.
"Illegal i Song" and "Headspace" are songs meant to re-define "hard rock." Angry and in your face, these are the stand-out tracks on Contraband.
Also included on Contraband is the far-overplayed track "Set Me Free" from the Hulk soundtrack, the first song the supergroup recorded.
One criticism about the album--even from non-prudes--is that Weiland can't seem to make his way through a song without using the word "fuck." Then again, maybe it's just his way of making a "statement."
Although Contraband could in no way be considered groundbreaking, given its extensive pre-release hype, it likely will not disappoint curious listeners.
