"Libertad," the much buzzed about follow-up to Velvet Revolver's freshmen effort, at first excites with the grunge-fueled explosion of 'Let it Roll.'
 

Slowly though, it morphs into what feels like an attempt to reclaim the heydays of good ol' fashioned RNR, as experienced by the band's former Wunderkinds - Scott Weiland and Slash.

Truly, there are a few moments of consonance and solid rocking to mention. But the age of the band?s musical filter is inescapable. "Libertad" leaves a smokey, cotton-mouth aftertaste that one would assume used to follow a late 1980's strip club all-nighter. In other words this is a group of songs that would benefit from being plugged back into music's timeline, circa 1990.  

Still, the album does have a few things going for it. Upon the first listening of 'She Mine,' 'The American Man,' and 'Get Out the Door,' you will find yourself immediately singing along. For better or worse, the droning melodies and sharp guitar licks will, no doubt, take up some pricey real estate on your brain's frontal lobe for the better part of a day. And a few listens can offer a new perspective.

By the second or third time through, 'She Mine' becomes an anthem, a throw-back to a masculine possessiveness that Gen-Y, in all its Metrosexual glory, may never understand.

It's been protested that Velvet Revolver, with its individual experience and talent, may be lesser than the sum of its parts. I would argue that this disc displays a notably high level of talent, but, with today's increasingly youthful audiences, will have a hard time finding a home with many listeners because it feels more dated than the market can afford to accept.

For Gen-Yers hoping to discover a fresh take on rock and roll, be sure to 'Liberate' yourself from this purchase. And, for those who actually remember the explosion of Guns 'n Roses and the early days of STP, definitely give this disc a shot. Your I-Pod might just enjoy the nostalgic ride back through music history.

3 out of 5 Stars


 

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