Language. Sex. Violence. Other?

AMG Review of Language. Sex. Violence. Other?

MacKenzie Wilson
All Music Guide

Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones roars "Cuz all I wanna do/Is make a mess outta you" on "Doorman," one of many white-hot blowouts from the band's fifth album, Language. Sex. Violence. Other? The album title borrows from the classification code used on the backs of DVDs, and its blunt display instantly pulls listeners toward Stereophonics' nonchalant chutzpah. Jones and bassist Richard Jones have never sounded more brash. The punk-inspired spark that made their 1997 debut, Word Gets Around, so impressive is rekindled. This 11-song set, which features quick and curt one-word song titles, is matched with sex appeal and an unshakable confidence. Argentinean-born Javier Weyler, who replaced founding drummer Stuart Cable in 2004, is a great fit with Stereophonics' wicked yet sensitive personality. Songs such as the smoldering bass funk of "Brother," the crunchy drop-kick of "Girl," and the glossy guitar hooks of "Dakota" find Stereophonics' second coming to be a convincing one. Jones' signature vocal grit saunters around the bravado of "Superman" and slow wax of "Pedalpusher" particularly well. This is the studio record they've been dying to make. While their previous four albums all showcased great moments, Stereophonics never fully realized their full-throttled power until Language. Sex. Violence. Other? Previous singles like "Madame Helga" and "The Bartender and the Thief" were mere glimpses into what this Welsh ock threesome could do if they just built upon their thick, merciless riffs and Jones' rough-edged vocals. Language. Sex. Violence. Other? is such an intense studio record. Stereophonics could not have nailed it any better.