CD REVIEW: HINDER – When The Smoke Clears

Label: The End Records

Release Date: May 12, 2015

Rating: 9.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

Hinder is at it again, with their fifth disc, and first with new vocalist Marshal Dutton.  “Rather Hate Than Hurt” kicks the disc off and was also the second single released from the collection.  The killer tempo of the track features skin pounding from Cody Hanson and a heavy bottom end from bassist Mike Rodden.  Lead single from the disc, “Hit The Ground” is all Hinder from first note to last.  The vocals capture the emotion of the lyrics and blend well with “Blower” Garvey’s lead guitar work as they chug along from verse to chorus and back, tossing is some cool riffs and solos along the way.  “If Only For Tonight” is a great track that takes on the role of the power ballad on a track that is about trying to save the relationship.  The songs gentle touch and rhythm gives the disc a Zen moment amidst the rock goodness.  “Dead To Me” carries a heavier groove and feel than most of the other tracks without losing sight or sound of the Hinder catalog.  The song’s lyrics are well matched to the mood of the track and take this disc to a dark place.  “Nothing Left To Lose” shows progression of the band and its sound, as it combines a cool acoustic sound into the verse and then gives the rhythm section room to explode at the chorus.

“Wasted Life” is a cool track that has a great anthemic vibe that should carry well in a live situation.  The guitars keep the track moving and Hanson’s drums anchor the track while the vocals add depth to the songs fun groove.  “Intoxicated” kicks the energy and attitude up a notch while staying true to the Hinder sound.  The vocals are a bit darker and heavier than normal, but it gives the disc a kick in the ass that ups the rock quotient.  The riffs are cool and fit the sound of the disc perfectly.  “Foolish Eyes” is a fun track that is playful and emotive.  The vocals and guitars work well together, especially when the chorus kicks in and brings an edge to the tracks lighter sound.  “Letting Go” is a lot like other mellow tracks on the disc, but the cleaner, yet attitude filled lead vocals from Dutton take this song to a new place for a Hinder ballad / soft track.  The guitar work from Garvey and rhythm guitar from Mark King add a bit of swagger and fun to this track, especially at the bridge.  “I Need Another Drink” is as fun a track as it gets.  This captures the spirit of Hinder, swirls it with a bit of 2015 attitude, and results in a killer track that will get heads banging, feet tapping, and hands in the air!!!

Tracklisting: Rather Hate Than Hurt – Hit The Ground – Wasted Life – If Only For Tonight – Intoxicated – Dead To Me – Foolish Eyes – Nothing Left To Lose – Letting Go – I Need Another Drink

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Category: CD Reviews