There’s often a sense of scepticism when it comes to band members breaking away to embark on a solo project, but Shinedown’s Eric Bass has well and truly silenced any doubts with this powerhouse of a production.
Entirely independent, Bass has stepped forward with a bold and fearless offering that exudes raw energy, unwavering ambition, and a level of artistry that feels both refined and instinctive. All of this is set against a backdrop of deeply personal and profoundly emotive storytelling, making for an experience that resonates on every level.
Towards the end of last year, he unveiled his debut single ‘Mind Control’ - a striking introduction that set the tone for what was to come. But this time, it’s the full shebang; an unfiltered, unapologetic showcase of his creative vision in its purest form. An introspective masterpiece, this album offers a deep dive into the mind of a true artist. It’s dynamic and unexpectedly infused with elements of synth and electro - an uncommon but refreshing twist for a member of the Shinedown camp. The sheer artistry on display is breath-taking, making for a superb record from start to finish. Even more impressive, the writing, recording and production was entirely crafted by Bass himself, showcasing his ability to compose a wide range of sounds while telling a deeply personal story.
It’s a powerhouse debut, blending emotion and energy. Opening with ‘A World Unseen’, a beautifully melodic and utterly atmospheric track before diving deep first into ‘The New Gods of War’ - pure riff-driven intensity but backed by twinkly piano moments that later erupt into a flurry of unadulterated electricity. I Had A Name is a haunting record, with doom-laced tones and ethereal keys. Tracks such as ‘New Graves’ inject a newfound punk energy with this standout techno twist. With soaring melodies and face crushing riffage, Bass has delivered a debut that demands to be felt as much as heard!
Of course it’s a stand alone from Shinedown’s material but there’s something familiar about it and it’s still very relevant in the arena-rock genre - and I for one cannot wait to hear these offerings live! But it doesn’t stop with the record - far from it. A graphic novel will soon accompany the album’s narrative, offering yet another creative outlet from this visionary mind.
Bass places himself in the shoes of the character Devaren, who embodies Bass’s personal struggles with his mental health; his experiences echoing throughout, a mere coincidence until reflection after writing the record. Now it’s something he hopes will help others. Throughout this album, Bass establishes himself as a standalone musician; a visionary artist with an utterly powerful story to tell.
Bass says: “I’ve spoken about my struggles with depression and neurodivergent issues before. When I finished writing this record, I looked back at these characters I’ve created and realized I’d written the most autobiographical record of my life, which wasn’t conscious as I was writing it. The album is an epic odyssey. I don’t want mental health to be an ‘angle’ that obscures that,” he adds. “But I don’t mind talking about it. Anytime I talk about it, I hope it’s helpful to someone else.”
Listen to ‘I Had A Name’ here
-
Words: Tate Powell (@tatepowellx)
Comments