Them Stones formed in 2012 and this self-titled cut is the band’s debut effort. Having been influenced by the ‘90’s Seattle grunge scene, these Swiss gentlemen look to make their own mark without being held down to any genre in particular. So let’s take a look at what they’ve come up with.
After a brief introductory piece, the band sound cohesive straight away. “Temptation” has a cool, slinky groove with a very dense sound redolent of that grunge era; think Soundgarden end of the spectrum in the manner of “Badmotorfinger”. For a starting point, this is quite a mature sounding track with a swirling vortex of grunge and desert rock. This is my high point though. The next couple of tracks, while tight sounding, tread the very well-worn path of ‘00’s FM radio friendly “alternative” bands like Three Doors Down and Puddle Of Mudd. It’s very accessible and commercial sounding but lacks the emotion to make you really believe in them.
“Dilligence” and “Lucubration” are positives that show Them Stones indeed have potential. The latter is a Stooges style affair with a primal beat but without that level of simmering anger or danger that would give the tracks the urgency they deserve. They take a turn towards a more old-fashioned, bluesy rocker in “Not My Friend”, but merely uttering the word “motherfucker” does not make for a bad-ass attitude and one is left feeling a lack of sincerity.
There are some other moments that show off some nice hooks but it feels more like style over substance. With 13 tracks coming in at around the 55 minute mark, there feels like a little too much of the familiar. The standout tracks that do have some edge are interspersed with some largely forgettable tunes. By the time we get to nine minute closer “Home”, there is the feeling of self-indulgence that doesn’t leave you with the anticipation of wanting more.
Over time, it will be worth exploring where Them Stones take their sound. From a production point of view, it feels polished and sounds well made. Right now though, there’s too much of a “been there, seen it, done it” feel. If you’re after accessible, safe sounds then check them out. For those wanting more edge, you might be left disappointed.
(5/10 Johnny Zed)
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