BEST ALBUMS OF 2008: #9: GUNS N’ ROSES “Chinese Democracy”
GUNS N’ ROSES
Chinese Democracy
(Black Frog/Geffen)
Available on CD, 180-gram LP with download code, and iTunes
It’s probably safe to say that for the past several years, W. Axl Rose has been operating on a principle not dissimilar to that of the Fall’s Mark E. Smith, who said in one famous instance regarding the high turnover in band members over the past thirty years, “If it’s me and your granny on bongos, then it’s a Fall gig.” While financially the album’s long-awaited release surely had to be a disaster for Geffen Records, artistically Chinese Democracy proves two thngs: 1) Axl was and is definitely the main creative force behind GnR, and 2) the album was worth the wait (and is worth seeking out in the vinyl format). Axl is still in fine voice, the songs are solidly written, and the various musicians employed throughout the lengthy recording process fill out the shoes of the classic lineup quite nicely. If that’s not all the assurance you need to check out this album, I don’t know what else to say to change your mind.
SPECIAL NOTE TO TGML READERS: Due to personal commitments, this entry will be the last formal entry of 2008. This series will resume on January 2, 2009, and posts will be much more frequent from then on. Thanks for your patience and support – CJ Marsicano
