Since they hit the big time back in 2005 with that single…“Lips Of An Angel”, Oklahoma’s HINDER have enjoyed a relatively successful career over the past decade with their radio friendly soft-rock anthems, gold and platinum-selling records, huge tours with the likes of MOTLEY CRUE and NICKELBACK…they can only be applauded, however this is rock ‘n’ roll at the end of the day and nothing is ever plain sailing. In Hinder’s case, original vocalist Austin Winkler did a stint in rehab and eventually, parted ways with the band only to be replaced by one Marshall Dutton. Dutton’s first task; the new album “When The Smoke Clears” which came out just this month. Has the transition been a smooth one, or will this hinder Hinder???
The album kicks off with “Rather Hate Than Hurt” and really there’s not too much difference in the bands overall style despite the line-up change. It’s quite straightforward hard rock with a touch of grunge, with a nice little solo thrown in as well courtesy of Joe Garvey; it’s a decent opener. “Hit The Ground” sounds more familiar with its acoustic elements and blues tones. It lacks momentum but is generally a pleasant track, with yet another solo included, Garvey’s having fun on this record! On the subject of acoustic guitar, “If Only For Tonight” is a lovely little ballad complimented nicely with a sprinkling of piano, providing the album with mainstream accessibility.
At the other end of the spectrum, “Intoxicated” and album highlight “Dead To Me” bring the riffs with a slightly heavier delivery ensuring there’s something for everyone, diversifying the album just enough, while the rest of the tracks carry on as standard. If you’re unfamiliar with the band and are more of a casual rock fan, then this new album will probably resonate well with your tastes, it’s easy on the ears and accessible listening, and is in no way a bad place to start if you’re introducing yourself to Hinder, or even just fancy a spot of light rock. Fans of the band will probably be pleased they've not altered a great deal; Dutton slots in well and the set up works. The only real flaw this album has? The artwork…it’s horrendous. If you can get past that, you’re OK. [6]
The album kicks off with “Rather Hate Than Hurt” and really there’s not too much difference in the bands overall style despite the line-up change. It’s quite straightforward hard rock with a touch of grunge, with a nice little solo thrown in as well courtesy of Joe Garvey; it’s a decent opener. “Hit The Ground” sounds more familiar with its acoustic elements and blues tones. It lacks momentum but is generally a pleasant track, with yet another solo included, Garvey’s having fun on this record! On the subject of acoustic guitar, “If Only For Tonight” is a lovely little ballad complimented nicely with a sprinkling of piano, providing the album with mainstream accessibility.
At the other end of the spectrum, “Intoxicated” and album highlight “Dead To Me” bring the riffs with a slightly heavier delivery ensuring there’s something for everyone, diversifying the album just enough, while the rest of the tracks carry on as standard. If you’re unfamiliar with the band and are more of a casual rock fan, then this new album will probably resonate well with your tastes, it’s easy on the ears and accessible listening, and is in no way a bad place to start if you’re introducing yourself to Hinder, or even just fancy a spot of light rock. Fans of the band will probably be pleased they've not altered a great deal; Dutton slots in well and the set up works. The only real flaw this album has? The artwork…it’s horrendous. If you can get past that, you’re OK. [6]
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