Clutch Book Of Bad De (Dlx)

Nearly 30 years into their careers, Clutch sound like they're just settling into their prime on their 12th set, Book of Bad Decisions. Balancing the full-throttled rush of 2013's Earth Rocker and 2015's epic Psychic Warfare, Book of Bad Decisions delivers a fiery, chest-thumping experience packed with Southern-fried rock strut. Producer Vance Powell (Jack White, Chris Stapleton) introduces some new tricks to the Clutch attack, introducing a honky tonk barroom piano that propels the rollicking "Vision Quest" and a brass section that buffers "In Walks Barbarella," a wildly charismatic entry that dials the funk past 11. This is classic Clutch and yet it feels refreshed and alive. Titled after the various chapters from the band's past -- like disastrous early gigs ("Gimme the Keys") or the first time frontman Neil Fallon heard Black Sabbath ("A Good Fire") -- Book of Bad Decisions honors their legacy without getting bogged down in the stoner-sludge of their early days. Even the cowbell retread of "Weird Times" and the bloated midsection serve a purpose, providing reliable new jams for the longtime fans skeptical about horns and piano tinkling on a Clutch record. Elsewhere, potential live staples and fan favorites abound. "Spirit of '76" doubles down on the Sabbath and Zeppelin influences. "Paper & Strife" chugs along the rhythm and groove provided by Tim Sult, Dan Maines, and Jean-Paul Gaster, who sound so tight they make this seem effortless. Clutch haven't sounded this unburdened or spirited in years -- the politically satirical "How to Shake Hands" and literal crab cake recipe "Hot Bottom Feeder" are both hilarious and deviously catchy -- ensuring that these road dogs have plenty of energy left in them. Book of Bad Decisions is an excellent late-era entry into the band's vast catalog, a natural product of their enduring chemistry and dedication to their legion of fans. ~ Neil Z. Yeung

• Format: CD
• Genre: Pop