MUSIC: ROADHOUSE DIET – Won’t Bend Or Break

MUSIC: ROADHOUSE DIET – Won’t Bend Or Break
Mojoholic Records
February 2018
Reviewed by Shane Pinnegar
7 ½ /10

Roadhouse Diet’s debut album Original Soundtrack was an inspired slab of Southern-tinged hard rock from the Swedish hinterland, full of ragged glory and faded denim charm. Three years on and the follow-up is finally here, and Dietter-in-chief Jonas Kjellgren has brought in Per Wiberg of Spiritual Beggars/Opeth (and a stack of others) fame on keyboards, leading to a slight evolution in the sound of the band.

The deep fried Scandoboogie is still there, it’s just a little less gonzo and in-your-face, which is a bonus or a detriment, depending on your own fancies. Personally, I found the debut more immediate, whereas this one takes a few more listens to properly absorb. Again, not a criticism.

The proof is always in the songs, of course, and opener Powerload, Devilmaker and Over The Top, The Down & Out are full of Kjellgren’s excellent guitar work and catchy melodies, and that’s enough to keep me happy any day.

Category: CD Reviews