Search - Soil :: Picture Perfect

Hardly Picture Perfect, But a Solid Rock Album Nevertheless.

Andrew Estes | Maine | 02/09/2010

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Poor, poor Soil. Emerging in late 2001, the band had the unfortunate fate of being lumped in with third-tier nu-metal acts such as Drowning Pool and Adema and could never quite break out on their own. But Soil were never quite nu-metal, and in spite of the repetitive nature of their music, had a sound all their own. With a distinct vocalist and hooky guitar-riffs, the band's formula produced a few hits with its two major-label albums before frontman Ryan McCombs departed, only to re-emerge in the aforementioned Drowning Pool. The band regained its footing slightly with 2006's True Self, but the album failed to hit like its predecessors did, and soon guitarist Shaun Glass departed as well.



You would think that with all they have endured over the years that the core members of Soil would have given up by now. At the very least, it's surprising to see that they have stood by the Soil name, even after its two key members are long gone. You could chalk it up to the survivors trying to cash-in on a somewhat viable name or you could simply assume that they are too stubborn to give it a rest. Whatever it is, though, Soil's fourth record certainly rocks and provides more than ample proof that the band are willing and prepared to stand on their own merits. Like "Scars" in its time, "Picture Perfect" isn't so much a game changer as it is an album that holds its own against its competition.



With producer Johnny K (Disturbed, Finger Eleven) in tow, Soil (now a foursome) manage to successfully capitalize on their catchy-brand of grungy hard-rock without the help of the members who previously steered the course. The album finds frontman A.J. Cavalier coming into his own, showing more range than he did on "True Self" (witness the soul he exudes on the bluesy "Lesser Man") while the band continue churning out simple yet effective and catchy tunes. The production is rock solid, as expected, with each of the thirteen tracks delivering enough variety to sustain an album without completely abandoning the tried and true sound of the band.



While "Picture Perfect" could be criticized for walking the beaten path, it's hard to hate on a simple rock album that knows what it is and does its job efficiently. If there's one thing to be said about this band, they are very good at adapting to change, and their fourth album does a good job at keeping with tradition. No, it's not breaking any molds, but those who seek good old hard rock with no frills will appreciate what "Picture Perfect" brings to the table."

SOiL can do no wrong

Nathan Proctor | Michigan | 11/24/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've reviewed SOiL albums in the past, and some of what I say will not be new. SOiL are a band that are clearly redefining their sound with every album - this one is no exception. Picture Perfect is another great release.



I was surprised that the band went this direction. This CD is clearly not as heavy as the previous release. If you are familiar with Seether's album "Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces," Seether stated they would be exploring their poppier side with that album. I'd compare SOiL's latest to that album. Although, both albums are definaletly still hard driving, there is more of a ballad/rock anthem feel to several songs.



The band has once again "Redefined" their sound. Picture Perfect may be closer sonically to the first two SOiL albums. Nonetheless, every song is catchy and well written. I'll be listening to this one for quite sometime."

Picture Perfect Metal Recipe

Filip Mihai | Bucharest | 04/06/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Every day that passes makes the job of making a good heavy metal album harder and harder. Most bands seem to overdo it one direction or another. Well, Soil doesn't: from songwriting to vocals, guitars and drums every aspect is perfectly done. This album is so good it sold me also on the ballads, for which usually I don't care that much. Again the vocals are so very, very, very good. This guy seems to be a mutant super singer bred with genes from the best rock singers around: screams like a young Rob Zombie and sings like Eddie Vedder. The songwriting is also spectacular. I could say it sounds like COC meets Rob Zombie and Alice in Chains but I won't, it sounds like Soil, and I sound like a dumb groupie. Buy it and ride in the sunset while the credits are rolling."