Them Crooked Vultures
Them Crooked Vultures
DGC/Interscope
November 17, 2009

By Don Weber

Them Crooked Vultures is the new self-titled debut album of a 2005 project band of the same name. The super group was formed by well-known drummer Dave Grohl (of Nirvana, Foo Fighters, and Probot), experienced guitarist and vocalist Josh Homme (of Queens of the Stone Age) and the renowned bassist John Paul Jones (of Led Zeppelin).

Their first album entitled Them Crooked Vultures has 13 tracks which run anywhere from three minutes to eight minutes a piece. The album, which contains artwork from Renaissance man Liam Lynch, pushes towards the rock of old. Many of the songs bring back vibes of classic rock, and the collaborative effort is amazing. Very rarely do you get so much talent together for a band without its problems, but the fact that Grohl and Homme are familiar with each other, and the fact that John Paul Jones is an icon is encouraging.

The three really work well with each other, and listeners can appreciate the lack of solo parts by any member. Each member gets their own opportunities to sing, which is always rewarded by the distinct vocals of lead singer Josh Homme. However, the instrumentals are the key focus.

The instrumentals and bass compete with the vocals and at times exceed them. In this sense, you get that sensation of a ’70s band roaring their instrument of choice. The album is produced, but has a live feel to it. To better explain the balance of vocals and instrumentals, Them Crooked Vultures sounds like you’re sitting in the middle row of a rock and roll concert.

This might push some listeners away, especially those looking to recognize the sounds of Grohl’s or Homme’s voices, but some will certainly love it. The band will probably gain some popularity for sometime as the music is similar to Queens of the Stone Age or Wolfmother.

In fact, there’s a pretty good chance that you may have already heard a song or two on the radio because the early released track “New Fang” has already received some chart buzz.

If you like hard rock, alternative or classic rock definitely check Them Crooked Vultures out. Even if you’re just interested in one of the members’ previous bands, it is well worth it. This isn’t your typical superband of desperate income, it’s something different. Them Crooked Vultures is going to wow some people, lose others and notch its way into the modern rock genre.