Album Review — Slash

Slash — Living The Dream

Slash is back and he has teamed up with Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators for the third time with “Living The Dream”. At this point they should probably come up with a band name as three records should constitute an actual band.

I will start by saying that I really like this album. There is a good balance of rock songs that are varied enough to keep the album interesting. There are a couple of slower songs to change the pace that are also very good. Slash’s playing doesn’t overtake the songs but is distinct. He’s one of the few guitar players that when you hear him you know it’s him. Myles Kennedy is truly a vocal star as he sounds terrific on this record. Kennedy can sing in a lower register similar to Axl Rose and hit the high notes with ease.

It’s hard to me to pick favorite songs as every song is very good. That’s the upside. The downside is I’m not sure there is a song here that will catch the attention of the listening public (ie, “Welcome to the Jungle”). “My Antidote” has a cool vibe to it. The first single, “Driving Rain” is catchy but still rocks. “The One You Loved Is Gone” is a strong acoustic ballad that doesn’t get sappy. “Boulevard of Broken Hearts” is a strong song to end the record.

Having listened to the record 3–4 times I like the record more and more and appreciate different songs each time. Maybe over time a certain song will assert itself as the one to remember from this record, but as of now, they are all strong and combine to make a very good rock record.

This one is sure to get many more listens and it’s one you will probably see on my Best Of 2018 year end list.

Overall — 90 out of 100

Track Listing

1. The Call of the Wild *
2. Serve You Right
3. My Antidote *
4. Mind Your Manners
5. Lost Inside the Girl
6. Read Between the Lines
7. Slow Grind
8. The One You Loved Is Gone *
9. Driving Rain *
10. Sugar Cane
11. The Great Pretender
12. Boulevard of Broken Hearts *

*Best Songs