In Orgy of the Damned, Slash embarks on a soulful journey through the rich landscape of blues, delivering a star-studded, electrifying homage to the genre that influenced rock 'n' roll. This sixth solo album sees Slash revitalizing the blues with his distinctive guitar playing and a collaborative spirit, bringing together an impressive lineup of guest vocalists and musicians.
BLRB Fave: Demi Lovato's "Papa Was a Rolling Stone"
In a standout moment on Orgy of the Damned, Demi Lovato does Detroit proud with her powerful and soulful interpretation to the classic "Papa Was a Rolling Stone." Known for her dynamic vocal range and emotive delivery, Lovato transforms this iconic track into a contemporary blues anthem. Her voice navigates the song’s intricate emotional landscape with both strength and vulnerability, delivering a performance that is raw and evocative. Slash’s guitar work weaves seamlessly with Lovato’s vocals, providing a gritty, bluesy backdrop that amplifies the song’s themes of loss and longing.
BLRB Tracks to Track:
Oh Well - Featuring Chris Stapleton, this cover of the early Peter Green/Fleetwood Mac tune stands out with Stapleton's gritty vocals paired with Slash's searing guitar riffs. The live, in-the-moment recording captures the raw energy of the original while infusing it with new life.
Killing Floor - An electrifying collaboration with Brian Johnson of AC/DC on vocals and Steven Tyler of Aerosmith on harmonica, this Howlin’ Wolf classic bursts with vitality. The synergy between Johnson's powerful voice and Slash's dynamic guitar work makes this track a highlight of the album.
Hoochie Coochie Man - With Billy F. Gibbons of ZZ Top stepping in on guitar and vocals, this Willie Dixon-penned, Muddy Waters classic showcases the album's emphasis on improvisation and unrestrained energy. The raw, live feel of the recording brings an authenticity that is both nostalgic and fresh.
Crossroads - Gary Clark Jr. joins Slash for a rowdy take on Robert Johnson’s iconic blues standard. The interplay between Clark's soulful guitar and vocals with Slash's distinctive style creates a vibrant and compelling rendition.
Stormy Monday - The incredible Beth Hart stuns on this soulful rendition of T. Bone Walker’s classic. Her powerful, emotive vocals paired with Slash's bluesy guitar lines create a poignant and moving track that stands out as a high point on the album.
The Pusher - Chris Robinson lives, breathes and consumes this track with his raw vocals and complete soul-bearing performance. You can't not feel this song when you listen to it.
Orgy of the Damned is a masterclass in blues revival, offering a stripped-down, energized collection of songs that are both vital and raw. Slash's decision to play everything live in the room, with an emphasis on improvisation, results in a dynamic and spontaneous feel throughout the album. The diverse guest vocalists and musicians add rich layers of texture and personality to each track, making the album a collaborative triumph.
Rounding out his blues band with longtime collaborators Johnny Griparic on bass, Teddy ‘ZigZag’ Andreadis on keyboards, drummer Michael Jerome, and singer/guitarist Tash Neal, Slash ensures a tight, cohesive sound that remains true to the spirit of the blues.
With Orgy of the Damned, Slash not only pays homage to the legends of the blues but also reinvigorates the genre with his inimitable guitar playing and the collaborative energy of his star-studded lineup. This album is a must-listen for blues enthusiasts and rock fans alike, showcasing the timeless power of the blues through the lens of one of rock's most iconic guitarists.
Slash's Orgy of the Damned is a vibrant celebration of the blues, bringing together a stellar cast of musicians to create an album that is as raw and vital as it is nostalgic. This is a blues album for the ages, blending tradition with modern flair and proving once again why Slash is a living legend in the world of music.
Listen to the full album here.
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