MUSIC REVIEWS
Institute - Distort Yourself
Matt Jameson
Institute is the newest project from Bush’s front man Gavin Rossdale. With this release Gavin teams up with some new faces and some familiar legends of the industry. Most notable, Josh Freese (of A Perfect Circle, and many others..) lends his amazing percussion skills, Chris Traynor (guitarist of Helmet) lends his pick, and Page Hamilton (of Helmet fame) signs on as the album producer. Both Freese and Traynor lend their talents to this album, which are easy to detect if you are at all familiar with their previous work. This release departs from Gavin’s signature sound popularized in the late 90’s when the smash group Bush could be heard playing 24-7 on any radio dial. Instead Distort Yourself takes an impressive new approach musically, while still relying on the Rossdale’s impressive writing skills. Just don’t expect anything groundbreaking.
In several tracks, this album reminds me of the old Gavin up to his usual tricks. But on a few tracks there is a definite Helmet vibe going on. In this case it proves to be a good thing, as it becomes just another reason this release stands out from others. Fans of Helmet rejoice!
The great thing about this record is that it brings back the 90’s alternative rock sound. This is not a new sound, but rather a resurrection of a great time in music. By bringing together this group of talented musicians Rossdale manages to assemble a niche album prone to speak to the hearts of any 90’s fan.
Fans of Gavin’s previous work will be quite pleased to see that he certainly has grown as musician. Those unfamiliar with his talents will certainly be happy to make their acquaintance. Distort Yourself is a great road trip album, and plays well all the way through. This is not the kind of album you’ll find yourself skipping through to find a great song.
Although it’s not groundbreaking in nature, it’s a very good release that will compliment most collections quite nicely. The best part about this album for you guys out there: If you hate it, it makes a great gift for your significant other or sister. Preview the tracks at amazon.com, if nothing else it will soothe your curiosity.
