ALBUM REVIEW ~ CLINT LOWERY ~ 'GOD BLESS THE RENEGADES'

If you’re even a casual fan of heavy music, you’d have to have been living under a rock not to know who Clint Lowery is. Lowery, who is best known for his work as the lead guitarist for Sevendust and Dark New Day, has a music career spanning well over two decades. After years of entertaining millions of fans with Sevendust, Clint has decided to release his debut solo album, God Bless the Renegades. The album, due to be released on January 31, 2020, feels like a deeply personal statement from the guitarist and one that is sure to further cement his already legendary status in the rock and metal community.

With the opening title track, Clint’s signature guitar style is immediately evident. The song starts out with a hard hitting guitar hook leading into some very passionate and soulful vocals that many fans may not expect from someone known primarily for their guitar playing. The lyrics appear to reflect Lowery’s admiration for those that are not afraid to think outside of the box and challenge themselves in new ways, much as he has set out to do with this album. On the next track “Here,” we catch a glimpse of a different side of Clint as the track starts out with slow, melodic keyboards and sampling. While the song takes a heavier turn, the keyboard sampling is something that remains prevalent throughout the track. However, it is layered with melodic guitar playing and some of the catchiest lyrics on the album. The album’s third track and first single “Kings,” immediately draws you in with its slow and groovy, yet incredibly powerful opening riff. The lyrics in this song appear to come from a deeply personal place and are most likely a reflection of Clint’s personal struggles with addiction and depression over the years. Clint brings this song home with a bluesy guitar solo. Clint obviously approached this track from a vulnerable place which is evident in the raw emotion felt, not only in the vocals, but also through the guitar solo.

The beauty of this album is that every song is so well written and beautifully crafted that it is difficult to pick favorites. However, even with this being the case, there are a few tracks that really shine above all of the rest. A definite standout is track number five “What’s the Matter.” The song starts out with some of the punchiest guitars on the album and has an almost punk rock vibe before moving into more atmospheric territory. The lyrics in this song seem to speak to redemption, which again, is likely a reflection of Lowery’s own journey. Another standout is track seven “Allowed to Run.” This song again finds the use of keyboards to create a textural backdrop to Clint’s heartfelt vocal delivery and electrifying guitar melodies. Clint closes this album out with the song “Do We Fear God.” This song is a beautifully constructed ballad in the vein of U2. The message of this song is likely the most powerful amongst the entire album. The song seems to indirectly speak to the current political and social division that is happening in the US and globally. The song is a call for unity, kind hearts, and good deeds. This is absolutely the best conclusion to an already intimate piece of work.

Overall, this album gives the listener a strong insight into what makes Clint Lowery tick. The personal statement that Clint set out to make, rings loud and clear throughout the entire course of the album. With this effort, Clint has shown the world what a capable and passionate song writer he is; and has given himself yet another outlet to connect with his fans on a completely different and even more personal level.

Review by I’m Music Magazine Contributing Writer Jason Jarvis

Order your copy of God Bless the Renegades: https://RiseRecords.lnk.to/renegades