Tenacious D – Rize Of The Phoenix: Review
Rize Of The Fenix (yes that’s how it’s spelt) is the first album by the popular comedy rock band Tenacious D since 2006′s flop Pick Of Destiny and the D want to rule the world again. It’s always good to see a band acknowledge the failure of their last album and attempt to improve on it, not so many bands do it in such a blatant way as Tenacious D though.
The first track of the Rize Of The Fenix shares the same title as the album itself, it’s straight back into familiar territory and poking fun at themselves for their last effort’s reception. But just like a phoenix they vow to rise again and it’s hard to argue with them with such a strong opener. With all pieces of the puzzle in place; acoustic guitars, vocal harmonies and tongue in cheek lyrics it seems like they’re back on top.
But it’s not to last, the album quickly drops downhill and becomes merely an above average release, you begin to feel that if it wasn’t for the charm of Jack Black and Kyle Gass then much of this album wouldn’t warrant a second listen. Songs like ‘Throwdown’ tread over old ground and while it’s not a bad song it just doesn’t have the wow factor and this goes for much of the album. Even recent single ‘Roadie’ seems very middle of the road(ie) and while the accompanying video featuring Danny McBride is hilarious the song just isn’t as funny.
ROTP sees the return of the much loved spoken skits that were lacking on Pick Of Destiny, these are some of the highlights of the album with the best involving Jack, Kyle, a trombone and a flute. The best songs come at the end of the album with three winners in a row coming in the shape of ‘Rock Is Dead’ a rock and roll tune with some top guitar work, ‘They Fucked Our Asses’ which has a heavy metal section at the end that is sure to appease the crowd during their set at this year’s Download festival. ‘To Be The Best’ is the other with an uber 80s style that would have fitted better at the start of the album.
While there are plenty of strong songs on the album it’s unfortunate that none of them reach the heights of fan favourites Wonderboy and Tribute.
Rize Of The Fenix is out now on Columbia
Summary: Sure the album is fun but it doesn't have the lasting appeal that their fantastic debut has, in another ten years people will still remember Fuck Her Gently but we doubt anyone will remember 'Low Hangin' Fruit'.
2.5
Lacking
About the Author
Michael Glynn Absolute music addict. When he isn't stuffing his face with pizza he can be found losing his shit at gigs. Chart music makes him angry, angry music makes him happy.
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