Black Stone Cherry Unleash Their Inner Demons on ‘Screamin’ at the Sky’ | Album Review

American rock band Black Stone Cherry was formed in 2001 in Edmonton, Kentucky. The founding lineup consisted of Chris Robertson on lead vocals, Ben Wells on guitars, John Fred Young on drums, and Jon Lawhon on bass guitar. Lawhon left the band in 2021, so Steve Jewell Jr. took his place. Black Stone Cherry’s sound is a mix of alternative rock, hard rock, and southern rock. Think modern day Lynyrd Skynyrd from the God & Guns era. Throughout the years, Black Stone Cherry have toured with bands such as Def Leppard, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Whitesnake, Bad Company, Nickelback, and Alter Bridge. 

Their eighth studio album, Screamin’ at the Sky, was released on September 29, 2023 through Mascot Records. According to Classic Rock Magazine, the album was recorded at The Plaza Theater in Glasgow, Kentucky. The band performed at the venue numerous times and always wanted to make a record there; with Screamin’ at the Sky, they finally had an opportunity to do so. It’s the first album of all-new original material to feature current bassist Steve Jewell Jr. Screamin’ at the Sky is the follow-up to The Human Condition, which came out in 2020. 

“We had a lot to say lyrically, musically, and sonically. We pushed ourselves to create not only something relevant, but also pushing the envelope to bend the trend. We are truly proud of this collection of songs and we hope you’ll celebrate it with us,” said Robertson. 

The best way to describe this album would be “heavy, but very commercial and radio-friendly.” It’s filled with raunchy, heavy riffs and juicy bass lines. Yet, there’s also melodic hooks and catchy choruses. The songs can appeal to the hard rock crowds and modern country crowds. The album’s second single, for example, “Nervous” has a killer groove, an infectious chorus, and a wicked bass line. Also, the lyrics draw listeners in because of the realism. It’s the fear of not being good enough and fear of letting others down that resonate with people.

“When the Pain Comes” is an anthem for the outsiders that have self-doubt and feel insecure about themselves. It’s about pushing through the difficult times, knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Not going to lie, most of the subject matters on Screamin’ at the Sky have been covered before by other artists, but everyone could use a reminder at times. There’s a lot of negativity surrounding mental health because people aren’t educated enough about it. So, when songs like “Smile, World” and “Who Are You Today?” come on, it’s encouraging to know that there are musicians out there who aren’t afraid to admit their internal battles. 

“Here’s to the Hopeless” is another highlight of the album. It’s got a memorable chorus, a great groove, is loaded with pop hooks, and it sends off a positive message in a world filled with so much hate. The last track, “You Can Have It All,” is one of the best songs on the album. It’s not as intense and in-your-face as the rest of the tracks, but it closes the album on a chilling and heartfelt note.

The production on this album is outstanding and everyone has their chance to shine. For Jewell Jr.’s first album with Black Stone Cherry, not bad, because his bass lines are quite noticeable in the mix, which is a good thing. Young’s drumming is monstrous and intricate, especially on the title track. Wells is not a flashy guitar player, instead, his riffs and solos are straight-forward. Nothing crazy, but enough to grab listeners’ attention. 

Screamin’ at the Sky represents how far Black Stone Cherry have come since their debut album from 2006. They’ve grown in their songwriting and playing abilities, and as life goes on, they’ll continue to tackle deeper subject matters. Screamin’ at the Sky will get a rating of 4.15 out of 5.0 stars.

Album Tracklist

1. Screamin’ at the Sky

2. Nervous

3. When the Pain Comes

4. Out of Pocket

5. Show Me What It Feels Like

6. R.O.A.R.

7. Smile, World

8. The Mess You Made

9. Who Are You Today?

10. Not Afraid

11. Here’s to the Hopeless

12. You Can Have It All

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