Since the song “Run” was released in June, fans have been excited about the release of Foo Fighters’ new album, “Concrete and Gold.” As more information came out, the anticipation only grew. Fans knew this album would be different; collaborations aren’t common with the “Foos,” and working with producer Greg Kurstin simply seemed odd (Kurstin’s work includes Adele’s “25” and Sia’s “This is Acting”). With “Concrete and Gold” now released, I am not disappointed in any way. Beginning softly with “T-Shirt,” the album has an initial Beatles vibe, but the second track, “Run,” immediately juxtaposes that sound with singer Dave Grohl’s screaming vocals, Taylor Hawkins’ powerful drumming, and Chris Shiflett’s lead guitar. With “The Sky is a Neighborhood,” Kurstin applies a pop-like melody to Foo Fighters’ rock sound and creates a hard-hitting song I can’t help but sing along to. As the album draws to a close, the it transitions into softer dulcet sounds. In addition to a new producer, the collaborations on the album also contribute to its unique sound. Enlisted to help are Justin Timberlake to sing on “Make it Right” and Alison Mosshart of The Kills and Boyz II Men’s Shawn Stockman for backing vocals in “La Dee Da” and the title track, respectively. Legend Paul McCartney hits the drums in “Sunday Rain,” while Hawkins takes the vocals. These collaborations set “Concrete and Gold” apart from any other Foo Fighters album. The lyrics draw inspiration from Grohl’s experiences as a father, his outlook on the future and politics. While the lyrics are dark, they also are inspiring, often implying a theme of “we’re all in this together.” In the end, this album is another solid entry in the band’s discography, proving that these aging rockers can still rock. “Concrete and Gold” is a unique twist on the usual “Foo” sound. This album took leaps of faith to create something new and certainly will go down as one of Foo Fighters’ best, and as one of my favorites as well.
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