Overall Grade:  2.30 (out of 5.0) 

 When I heard Velvet Revolver was going to put out a sophomore album, I was happy but scared. Happy because I was a fan of the first album and Scott Weiland has always been in my top 3 music guys ever. So, I was hoping for the best. But, I was scared cause I told people left and right "Man, I just have a feeling this might be one of the biggest sophomore slumps ever."

I THINK THIS MIGHT BE THE BIGGEST SOPHOMORE SLUMP EVER

The single "She Builds Quick Machines" is good…maybe even great. But not awesome or even five-star worthy in my opinion. The best song on the album is the last track, a ballad titled "Gravedancer", and that isn't even a five-star song.

The sound has just completely changed. Where was Duff on this album? And did Slash record in the studio, or did they have a stand in? The guitar work is boring. Parts of the album sound like Stone Temple Pilot's album Tiny Music…Songs From The Vatican Gift Shop. Even Scott Weiland disappointed me on this album. Gosh, did I just say that? His lyrics are great as usual, but the melodies just don't do anything and it seems sometimes he's even "forcing the emotion" to come out in the song.

Do yourself a favor and do not buy this album. If you are a die-hard fan, go for it. I'm a die-hard Scott Weiland fan, which is the only reason I'd keep this album in my library. Otherwise, download "Gravedancer" for sure, and if you feel like it, check out the single "She Builds Quick Machines" as well. Otherwise, stick to Contraband, the band's first album which is actually good!

By: The Asif