Tag: bob balch

Fu Manchu – Clone of The Universe

by desertrockunited3960, posted in Uncategorized

In the vast realm of stoner rock, few bands have left as indelible a mark as Fu Manchu. For over a quarter of a century, this Southern California group has been synonymous with the genre, delivering energetic hard rock that resonates with fans worldwide. With their 12th album, 2018’s “Clone of the Universe,” The Fu as their fans call them, reaffirm their position as one of stoner rock’s most influential bands. Coming in at 36 minutes and with closer, “IL Mostro Atomico taking up 18 of those minutes most of the albums songs are sub 4 minute blasts of riff heavy stoner jams then band is famous for.

A Legacy of Fuzz and Groove

Fu Manchu’s roots can be traced back to their beginnings as a hardcore punk act. However, it was when they embraced a more groove-oriented sound that they truly found their stride. The band’s lineup saw some instability in their early years, with notable figures like Brant Bjork (KYUSS/BRANT BJORK & BROS) and Eddie Glass (NEBULA) contributing to their unique sonic palette. It wasn’t until the new millennium that a consistent crew solidified, with Scott Hill (vocals/guitar), Bob Balch (guitar), Brad Davis (bass), and Scott Reeder (drums) forming the core of Fu Manchu.


A Journey Through Space and Time
Fu Manchu’s music has always had a touch of the cosmic, but in recent years, they have ventured further into the realms of outer space and science fiction. “Clone of the Universe” starts out as mid tempo rocker that morphs into a speed punk jam with Scott Reeder pounding out some rapid fire tom fills over the fuzzed out guitar riffs. The album opens with the high-octane surge of “Intelligent Worship,” immediately immersing listeners in Fu Manchu’s signature sound. The band’s knack for crafting catchy, upbeat rockers is evident in tracks like “(I’ve Been) Hexed” and “Don’t Panic.” These songs represent the first half or “side” of the album, showcasing Fu Manchu’s trademark bombast with a modern twist.


Beyond Boundaries: “Il Mostro Atomico”
Just when you think you have Fu Manchu figured out, they unleash the epic finale, “Il Mostro Atomico.” Clocking in at a staggering 18 minutes, this ambitious composition showcases the band’s willingness to push beyond their self-imposed boundaries. With guest appearance from Rush guitar legend, Alex Lifeson, “Il Mostro Atomico” takes listeners on a psychedelic journey through a universe free from the constraints of traditional stoner rock. The song is divided into four parts, each offering a unique sonic landscape that showcases Fu Manchu’s versatility and artistic growth.


The Evolution of Fu Manchu
Throughout their career, Fu Manchu has displayed an impressive level of tenacity and endurance. Their sound, rooted in the bombast of Black Sabbath, has evolved over time, incorporating elements of prog and psychedelia. While their earlier albums laid the foundation for their groove-oriented style, recent releases have seen Fu Manchu explore new sonic territories. “Clone of the Universe” is a testament to their creative evolution, seamlessly blending their signature fuzz-laden riffs with a willingness to experiment and push the boundaries of their sound.


The Resilience of a Stoner Rock Icon
Fu Manchu’s consistency and resilience are key factors in their enduring legacy. While some may argue that their sound has become predictable, there is a sense of comfort in knowing what to expect from this venerable band. Fu Manchu’s ability to deliver hard-hitting, feel-good rock has endeared them to fans worldwide. However, as “Il Mostro Atomico” demonstrates, they are not content to rest on their laurels. Fu Manchu continues to surprise and captivate listeners, proving that they are more than just a one-trick pony.


Conclusion: A Stellar Addition to Fu Manchu’s Discography
“Clone of the Universe” is a testament to Fu Manchu’s enduring presence in the stoner rock landscape. The rhythm section provides the foundation, Bob Balch can shred with the best of them and Scott Hill’s laid back vocals float above the distorted grinding riffs, this is the essence of “Th Fu” This album showcases their evolution as a band while staying true to their roots. With infectious grooves, cosmic themes, and an epic finale that pushes the boundaries of their sound, Fu Manchu proves once again why they are considered one of the genre’s most significant acts. As they continue their journey through the hazy highway of stoner rock, Fu Manchu remains a shining star in the vast universe of heavy music.

Track List:

  1. Intelligent Worship 03:07
  2. (I’ve Been) Hexed 02:47
  3. Don’t Panic 02:04
  4. Slower Than Light 03:25
  5. Nowhere Left To Hide 04:18
  6. Clone Of The Universe 02:57
  7. IL Mostro Atomico 18:07

Lineup:

Scott Hill – vocals, guitar
Bob Balch – guitar
Brad Davis – bass
Scott Reeder – drums
Alex Lifeson – guitar (Track 7)

(Desert Spotlight) Big Scenic Nowhere – The Long Morrow

Featured by desertrockunited3960, posted in Music Reviews

BSN is often described as a mix of stoner/psychedelic and desert rock, drawing on the desert landscape and rock music traditions of Southern California’s Coachella Valley. The Long Morrow is the band’s fourth release and, along with 2020’s EP Lavender Blues, is the output from recording sessions in 2019. For trivia buffs out there The Long Morrow was an episode of 60’s show The Twilight Zone, maybe an influence on the band?

The band is known for creating songs with extended jams that taken as a whole create a unique sonic canvas almost as if creating a concept album. Having said that, the songs here can stand on their own, while still fitting within the broader album. Murder Klipp might be considered a darker song on the album, with odd time signatures and more progressive rock stylings along with twin vocals. This track is heavier than the others on the album.

Defector (Of Future Days) is a short, direct, hard rocking track. This track is more of a straight-ahead riff-rocker without the familiar psych stylings. The vocal reminds me a little of Mike Patton era Tomahawk. Lavender Bleu opens with calmness and haunting vocals and the verses are in this style, while the choruses and solo passages are a bit heavier, making for a varied and quite satisfying experience. The fourth and shortest track on the album LeDu follows another straightforward desert rock tune for its near three-minute run time.

To close things out the band embarks on The Long Morrow, the near 20-minute trip through various sonic landscapes that include heavy riffing, organ flourishes, blazing solos and twin guitar attack riffing that complements all the sonic canvasses of the previous tracks on the album. With all of the various sections and vibes here you could turn this on close your eyes and see the desert, moon, cactus and really be transported there. This track has so many interesting elements I could see the band releasing it as a one track EP. The very definition of extended play!

In regards to the guitar playing, to quote Biggie Smalls, “If you don’t know, now you know”. Bob Balch and Gary Arce can shred in various styles and as much as you need. The closer has so many great riffs it’s really fun to listen to wondering where they go next. Throw in some phaser and reverb along with the metal solo riffing and you really get your money’s worth! Both players have their unique styles and really complement each other here. On a path to the end of all things is the last lyric to close out The Long Morrow before concluding with more guitar soloing to close things out.

Lineup:
Gary Arce: Guitar
Bob Balch: Guitar
Tony Reed: Bass/Vocals/Synth/Guitar
Bill Stinson: Drums

Track List

  1. Defector (Of Future Days)
  2. Murder Klipp
  3. Lavender Bleu
  4. LeDu
  5. The Long Morrow