After what seemed like a wait of four score and seven years (so, 17), Axl Rose - the obsessive self-imagined mad-scientist genius of one of the most notable bands of the late 80’s and early 90’s - finally got over his own perfectionist leanings to quench the thirst of eager fans. Guns ‘n’ Roses new album “Chinese Democracy,” was released this past weekend.
“Chinese Democracy,” which represents the first release of original material from the band since 1991’s “Use Your Illusion” albums, had become somewhat of a mythical running joke. Most people doubted it would ever see the light of day, as Axl spent his time re-recording and tinkering with tracks, firing bandmates, and pining for Stephanie Seymour.
Alas, the wait is over, and the reviews have been mixed. By most accounts, for the amount of the time and energy the combustible frontman poured into it, the final result has not been worth the wait. In my own opinion, it doesn’t totally suck. The album itself is full of ambitiously grand arrangements and a melange of different styles tackled and committed to with aplomb. The sound just seems thirteen years too late. Hopefully, Axl will have better luck next time when he releases “Inuit Aristocracy” in 2024.
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