Black Oak County - Black Oak County (EN)

The new year is at the ready. Many of us like to tell themselves to do something in the new year. Maybe less drinking (or more), quit smoking (and start to engage in sports) oder to finally release a debut. Black Oak County deliver their first longplayer of the same name. The band took 5 years for their debut, the foundation year is 2012 and is thus a while ago.

The entrance with "Someone Else" turned out really good. It's a sign of the charismatic appearance of the troop. This is not only due to the highly successful production - here Jacob Hansen is responsible, who has already successfully mixed Volbeat and Pretty Maids - but it's also due to the expressive voice of front man Niels Beier. He roars powerful which sounds authentic from the boxes. You believe what he sings, the emotions in his voice - it doesn't matter whether he should sound aggressive or sad - he achieves it famously. But the rest of the band doesn't stay in his shadow. Everthing harmonizes perfectly, the pressureful riffing is the perfect ground for Niel's voice.

The song "Mad Dog" has even a video and why this was selected as a single, is obvious during the first run through. He is powerful and dominant, this song wants to and will rock. Even if this is the tenor of the whole record, there is no boredom. There is also an occasional attempt to get rid of the scheme. The best example therefor is the song "Rated R For Redneck". The bluesy southern state note with Slideguitar brings not only variety, but also shows the musical roots, which can be lost during the powerful interpretation of the genre.This is also reflected in the strong "Laughing With The Crows". Especially the chorus with its great composition and the melody management will provide for enthusiasm. The rhythm fraction is very playful, but without jeopardizing the song. Game wit is trump here.

Regarding the music, this album reminds me of the debut of Devils Train, which doesn't mean that it is a copy. Not at all. It reminds me, however, the sound and songwriting have a distinctive difference: The songs stick in my head way longer. The only exception ist the ballad "If You Only Knew". Don't get me wrong, the song is good as it is, but in my point of view this it the low point of the disc.

Conclusion:
It has been 5 years in between the foundation to the first disc and I have to say, this time paid off. Just like a whisky in an oak barrel has to ripe, the guys took their time to develop and it shows. It's done loud and powerful. The middle part is a bit weak and found his low point within the ballad, but nevertheless it is a really strong debut. I hope these guys have enough time in the future too, because this is how Hard Rock should sound. Try it out and get one for yourself.

Rating: 8/10

Recommendation: Mad Dog, Rated R for Redneck, Laughing With The Crows