A Bigger Bang,” released in 2005, is the 22nd British and 24th American studio album by The Rolling Stones. It marks a significant return for the band, their first studio album of original material since “Bridges to Babylon” in 1997. Spanning a range of themes and musical styles, “A Bigger Bang” has been praised for its raw energy and return to the Stones’ rock roots.
When it came out nineteen years ago, I, as a big Stones fan, listened to it once and then put it away for a while, dissatisfied with it. However, the more I played it, the more it grew on me. I won’t do the usual comparison to their so-called Big Four of Beggars Banquet, Let it Bleed, Sticky Fingers, and Exile on Main Street like everyone else does. Instead, I’ll review it on its own.
The album’s production is notably stripped-down compared to their more polished efforts in the late 20th century. Produced by Don Was, “A Bigger Bang” showcases a band that, despite its long tenure, refuses to succumb to complacency. The album’s length, running over an hour with 16 tracks, is ambitious and reflects a band eager to explore a broad sonic palette.
“A Bigger Bang” captures the essence of The Rolling Stones’ iconic sound while infusing it with contemporary energy. The album opens with “Rough Justice,” a gritty, unrestrained rocker reminiscent of their early days. The riff-driven track sets the tone for the album, emphasizing raw guitar work and Jagger’s distinctive, swaggering vocals.
The Stones delve into their blues roots with “Back of My Hand,” a minimalist track that underscores their deep roots in the genre. Keith Richards’ slide guitar and Jagger’s harmonica work are highlights, invoking the spirit of classic blues. Tracks like “Oh No, Not You Again” and “She Saw Me Coming” continue the rock-oriented vibe, featuring tight guitar interplay and catchy choruses.
Lyrically, the album touches on love, politics, and introspection themes. “Streets of Love,” a poignant ballad, explores heartbreak with a vulnerability that contrasts sharply with the more aggressive tracks. The song’s emotional depth is complemented by Jagger’s impassioned delivery.
“Sweet Neo Con,” a politically charged track, stands out for its direct critique of American politics in the early 2000s. The song’s biting lyrics and driving rhythm reflect the band’s willingness to engage with socio-political issues, demonstrating that their music remains relevant and provocative.
In “Rain Fall Down,” the Stones venture into funk territory, delivering a groovy, danceable track that critiques urban life and modern decadence. This thematic diversity highlights the band’s versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles while keeping their distinctive sound.
The production of “A Bigger Bang” is characterized by its rawness and immediacy. Unlike the polished productions of “Steel Wheels” and “Bridges to Babylon,” this album feels more organic and spontaneous. The decision to focus on a more stripped-down sound pays off, highlighting the band’s instrumental prowess and chemistry.
Mick Jagger’s performance throughout the album is dynamic and compelling. Although his voice is mature, it retains the energy and charisma that have defined his career. Keith Richards, Charlie Watts, and Ron Wood (who was present on only ten tracks) deliver solid performances, with Richards’ guitar work being particularly noteworthy. His interplay with Wood on tracks like “Dangerous Beauty” and “Driving Too Fast” captures the essence of the Stones’ classic sound.
While not every track is a gem (“Infamy” and “Look What the Cat Dragged In” come to mind), upon its release, “A Bigger Bang” received positive reviews from critics. Many praised the album’s vitality and returned to a more straightforward rock approach. It was seen as a reaffirmation of The Rolling Stones’ enduring relevance in the rock landscape.
Commercially, the album performed well, reaching the top ten in several countries, and spawning successful tours. The accompanying “A Bigger Bang Tour” became one of the highest-grossing tours of all time, further cementing the band’s legacy as one of the most successful live acts in rock history.
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