Alice In Chains – The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here

As strong as 'Black Gives Way to Blue', this album is equally impressive and equally powerful. Vocally, J. Cantrell dominates the album - his double- and triple-tracked lines echoing the greatest moments of 'Sap' and 'Jar of Flies', all while invoking some of the more tormented tones of 'Dirt' across some of the heavier pieces.

Sadly, W. Duvall takes a lesser role across the album, but the tracks he does contribute to are brilliant again, and when he's employed to produce those glissandos and more acrobatic pieces, the album only benefits further. And when the two vocalists mix (as in 'Pretty Done' or 'Phantom Limb'), the real brilliance of the album is revealed.

Guitar tones are exceptional, with dirt, power and clarity all present - the riffs passed through are simple, tasty, powerful and sometimes brilliantly simple. They are also listenable and downright catchy.

There is no weak point on the album, however trivial, and the production (while less bombastic than BGWTB) is nevertheless punchy and full, with the acoustic tracks holding their own within the album and alongside 'Jar of Flies' - just listen to 'Choke', or 'Voices' if you doubt it.

The band have shown that there is a real post-Staley future, and J. Cantrell's song-writing, meshed with Duvall's adaptable talents (he's an accomplished guitarist, too) only benefit from great production and a rhythm section that nail it every time.

Excellent album with strong compositions, dynamics, and a convincing release that proves Alice in Chains have so much more to give. If BGWTB proved their new line, this album concretes it and confirms a bright second life for Alice in Chains.