Sweet Southern Sugar

Kid Rock

Broken Bow/BMG, 2017

http://www.kidrock.com/

REVIEW BY: Pete Crigler

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED: 11/07/2017

Well, here we go again. Former rap-rocker, possible senatorial candidate (hoaxer) and all-around jackass Kid Rock has returned. Leaving his label home of over 20 years to sign with a country label, he kicks off his new album with “Greatest Show on Earth,” a barnstormer with lyrics talking about how great he is—you know, the same spiel we’ve heard since 1998. Not much has changed and unfortunately, he still sounds as corny and lyrically challenged as he ever has.my_heart_sings_the_harmony_web_ad_alt_250

On the other page, “Po-Dunk” is an attempt at 2017 country that falls on its face—lowest common denominator crap that attempts to appease his audience and largely succeeds on that front. But for anyone looking to hear something good and worthwhile, it ain’t gonna be here. Listening to crap like this literally gives me a headache.

“American Rock n’ Roll” sounds a lot like “Only God Knows Why”-era stuff, kind of a Luke Bryan meets Bob Seger feel. Namedropping as much as he can, he tries to sing to the common man, but his bravado really seems out of date in this day and age. One almost wishes the whole album was about drinkin’ and screwin’. On “I Wonder,” he attempts some electronica while maintaining that old Kid Rock swagger; it’s just pure machismo that doesn’t do much beyond the first listen.

The oh-so-subtlely-titled “Raining Whiskey” is a whining, yearning ballad about a love that walked out the door. At least Korn tried some different things and never stayed in the same rut for so long. Dear lord, let this record end!

It’s the same old tired gag, machismo and bravado mixed in with wannabe soul and blues wrapped in an American flag bandanna. The less said about “Grandpa’s Jam” the better off we all are. He even takes The Four Tops’ classic upbeat “Sugar Pie Honey Bunch” and turns it into a ballad. Levi Stubbs, this man is not nor will he ever be! Avoid this unnecessary cover at ALL costs.

Without a doubt, this is one of the worst listening experiences I’ve had in quite some time and I really feel pity for someone who enjoys this rancid clam chowder of a disc.

Rating: F

User Rating: Not Yet Rated


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