Gavin Rossdale can only hope that the sound and unmistakable voice he contributed to Bush will carry over into the makeup of his new band Institute.
After quietly disbanding in 2001, Bush's front man chose to move on and form Institute instead of the go-to sensitive solo project.
Rossdale worked with members of Helmet to create Institute's first album, "Distort Yourself," which has an edge similar to Bush's "Razorblade Suitcase" and "Sixteen Stone."
Page Hamilton, lead singer of Helmet, produced the album and added a harder sharpness resembling that classic Bush sound. Also contributing was guitarist Chris Traynor, bassist Cache Tolman and Charlie Walker on the drums.
The album opens with what may be considered the perfect opening track. "Bullet Proof Skin" works to draw in the listener and introduces "Distort Yourself" as a real rock album with heavy sounds behind Rossdale's refreshing and distinctive vocals.
Tracks like "Boom Box" and "Seventh Wave" sound akin to typical radio songs.
"Lovers in dangerous love/ we'll find a way through everything/ sick of thought of losing you," sings Rossdale on "Boom Box."
Combined with appropriate visual stimulation, lyrics such as these are likely to end up on MTV.
"Ambulances" presents a softer sound that contrasts with the rest of the album. The mellow vocals and instrumental backing match with lyrics that offer a little depth. It's hard to tell how deep their meaning actually goes, but it sounds good.
Though "Distort Yourself" does lack the "special something" that songs like "Glycerine," "Comedown" and "Machine Head" had, it's still an enjoyable rock album.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
