Battle for the Sun

Band/Artist: Placebo
Label: Vagrant Records
Website: www.placeboworld.co.uk/

Battling the Placebo effect

Placebo probably should have been a band that never made it past a few albums. I don't say this because of the group's capability but because they never seemed to break into that second tier of popularity and mainstream acceptance. This especially holds true in the States, but with each release the group cranks out solid singles and have been able to build a core following plus have amassed ten million in album sales.

On Placebo's sixth album Battle For The Sun the group grabbed producer Dave Bottrill (chosen by the band largely because of his work with Tool) and replaced their drummer since 1996 Steve Hewitt, with 22-year old Californian Steve Forrest in order to re-energize the group.

This new look for the band also includes splitting from the majors and funding Battle on their own then making distribution deals with smaller labels such as Vagrant. This new freedom and energy can be heard throughout Battle For The Sun.

The distinctive nasal vocals of Brian Molko takes the lead and puts real emotions into every track while the the other two group members hit it hard and max out their instruments. The record sounds sharp, pounding and rocks out in just the right places making Battle For The Sun not only a must for longtime fans but once again should pull some newbies with its fresh and vibrant snap!

Reece Michael

For more of Reece Michael's music reviews, check out The Fire Note

To see a clip for 'Battle for the Sun' by Placebo, click the play button below

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