Album Review: Wolfmother - Cosmic Egg

After a 4 year wait and a slight line-up change, Wolfmother have returned with their sophomore record, 'Cosmic Egg'. A record that is business as usual for the now 4-piece. For those familiar with the band's style, bluesy rock n roll with a definite 70's influence.

'California Queen' opens the record with plenty of stomp and swagger, as fuzzy guitars and Andrew Stockdale's raspy voice dominate. Whilst 'New Moon Rising' is reminiscent of Led Zepplin, with spiraling guitars and impressive chorus.

Throughout you have to remember you're listening to a Wolfmother record in the year 2009, and not stoner rock band from the 1970's. Despite its lack of originality, the Australian band make up for it in skill and depth. Tracks like 'Sundial' and '10,000 Feet' sound massive with large, wide guitar riffs that fits the band's ambitious approach ideally.

Whereas 'In The Castle' sees the band slightly changing things up a little bit, by simply adding a hint of psychedelica to their work. In addition to this it adds depth to the bands rock and roll style. 'Far Away' also shows this but its slower tempo manages to keep the bands cool rock star aura.

Although 'Cosmic Egg' goes down the safe towards the end, its all still enjoyable as Wolfmother have found a winning formula and stuck to it. It is a record that sounds grand with crisp production and intriguing lyrics, which gives the bands a unique identity. It takes the good points from the bands debut; superb guitar riffs, strong vocals from Stockdale etc and takes up to the next level.

For those who call Wolfmother a one-hit wonder, should re-think that logic as 'Cosmic Egg' as Wolfmother are here to stay and are going to rock and roll into 2010.

3.5/5

'Cosmic Egg' by Wolfmother is available from next week (UK release on October 26th, US release on October 27th)on DGC Records.

Official Website
Wolfmother on MySpace

Sean Reid