Slash

Slash is proof that life doesn’t end just because your mega-successful band does. World on Fire, the third release of his prominent solo career, marks the return of Alter Bridge singer Myles Kennedy. With a no-frills, less-is-more production (much like 2012’s Apocalyptic Love), the 17-track offering abounds with spectres of a Guns ’n’ Roses past. “Too Far Gone” expresses the GnR homage strongly in its thunderous rhythm and, of course, with Slash’s blistering guitar solos. The expansive musicianship of Slash and his band is evident straight away in the lacerating title track, with Kennedy belting out lyrics of worldly excess and addictive trappings. Kennedy proves once again to be the voice of Slash, whether singing in low-register or high — and just the right amount of gravel in his throat.

The cautionary “30 Years to Life” is “a tale that must be told,” and a soundscape that must be heard. On “Battleground”, Kennedy bleeds of good love gone bad, flaunting a vocal magnificence equal to Chris Cornell. The bluesy instrumental, “Safari Inn,” is well-placed in the latter part of the album and dishes out a dose of infectious guitar mojo from a man who keeps making music that mystifies.

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Charlie Steffens

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