Golden State

by Bush (Rock)

Product Description:

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

Bush: Gavis Rossdale (vocals, guitar); Nigel Pulsford (guitar); Dave Parsons (bass); Robin Goodridge (drums).

Additional personnel: Eric Stefani, Paul Eastman (piano); Jamie Muhoberac (keyboards); Bon Harris (programming); Dave Sardy (sound effects).

Recorded at Olympic Studio, London, England and Village Recorder, Los Angeles, California.

This is an Enhanced CD, which contains both regular audio tracks and multimedia computer files.

By today's standards of music product packaging, the colored background and white lettering of Bush's new CD is decidedly simple and to the point. This approach neatly suits the raw, earthy vibe that stretches across GOLDEN STATE. Bush embodies the quintessence of stripped-bare grunge rock, and their prosperous survival in the post-grunge era is an impressive feat in and of itself. Leading off with "Solutions," principal writer Gavin Rossdale marks his territory with abstract metaphors. "The People That We Love" boasts an opening riff that wouldn't sound out of place in a Rage Against The Machine song, with lyrical fodder that warns against tearing down that which we hold most sacred.

Midway through GOLDEN STATE, Bush rotates on its musical axis with business-as-usual tracks such as "Fugitive," "Hurricane," and "Reasons." No Doubt founder Eric Stefani graces the keyboards once again on "Out Of This World," while shades of Pearl Jam resonate in "Inflatable," a commentary on societal symbols that carry the naive expectation of purity and loyalty. Breaking away from the dominating mid-tempo tracks, "My Engine Is With You" is Bob Dylan stream-of-consciousness held hostage by raw, Soundgarden-like fury. In a saturated market of nu-metal and disposable pop, GOLDEN STATE is a warm sonic locale.