I remember the band BROTHER CANE with a smile. They did a few records in the mid-90s that defied all of the NIRVANA clones and manufactured angst that marred that era. Their blend of blues-based, southern influenced, hook-laden hard rock flew under the radar and they were able to somehow nab some mainstream radio airplay. It was clear to me that these cats, sadly, wouldn't have a long shelf-life, and sure enough, I was right. When they disappeared, I just assumed that some gas station out there was four attendants richer, and I would just have to delve deeper underground in order to find new rock 'n roll worth listening to.

Well, two guys from BROTHER CANE (vocalist/guitarist Damon Johnson, and bassist Roman Glick) have re-emerged with a new project, SLAVE TO THE SYSTEM. They are joined by QUEENSRŸCHE alumni Scott Rockenfield and Kelly Gray (drums and guitar, respectively.) On paper, this grouping sounds odd, but the album works, somehow. A decent synthesis of good elements from both bands is audible. The results are definitely more metal than BROTHER CANE, but enough of a BC influence remains in the slower songs like "Will You Be There," "Gone Today," and "Live This Life" to make them feel somewhat familiar. Johnson's voice is in top form, here. His laid back, soulful delivery makes the generic riffs of songs like "Stigmata" and "Ruby Wednesday" really come alive. My one complaint, (and it's a common complaint I have with most new records) is that it is too long. Filler starts to creep in at the end of the disc. In particular, the track "Ragdoll" is pretty much useless. If AUDIOSLAVE ever cut a song from one of their records, it would sound like this.

The songwriting here isn't as sharp or as memorable as their reputations should demand, but overall, this album is enjoyable. If these guys can grow as a band, and this record is successful enough to warrant a second album, the results could really be something. If not, Johnson and Glick's inevitable employment at the great rock 'n' roll gas station in the sky might finally come to pass.

- Broadbent

OFFICIAL SITE: www.slavetothesystem.com

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