It never fails, each new Clutch work is a safe asset, and this "Book Of Bad Decisions" is no exception.

With a long musical career of more than 25 years and 12 albums in the studio, we can say that the band is in one of its best moments of creativity and popularity, hence the expectation for the new release is maximum.

"Books Of Bad Decisions" has been recorded at Sputnik Sound Studios in Nashville by the prestigious producer, engineer and mixer, winner of several Grammys, Vance Powell (Red Fang, Jack White, Buddy Guy…). Recorded old-fashioned with vintage gear, the result is a raw, organic sound. A superb production that enhances the groove of the band and induces us to discover a thousand and one nuances.

It is possible that the band has lost in intensity and fierceness, but there is no doubt that they have gained in eclepticism and musicality. Stoner, Hard rock, Funk, Psychedelia, Southern ..., an amalgam of sensations and sounds that nevertheless merges into an unmistakable Clutch sound.

There are many remarkable themes. Authentic cannon shots like "Gimme the Keys", "How to Shake Hands" or "Weird Times" (with that John Bonham drumming).

Atmospheric halftimes like "Spirit of '76", with that delicious chorus, "Book of Bad Decisions" dominated by a saturated bass sound, or the enigmatic "Emily Dickinson".

We also have the pure rock n 'roll of "Weird Times" (what a rhythm of keyboards and drums!)

Even in the Funk of "In Walks Barbarella" these guys embroider it.

The only but that a priori could be found in this work is its long duration, with no less than 15 songs and that could lower the average quality of the work. However, after the expendable "Ghoul Wrangler" and "H.B. Is in Control ”, the album surprises us with 3 absolutely incredible final songs.

Or is it that that kind of swampy blues rock that is "Hot Bottom Feeder" is not totally amazing.

"Paper & Strife" is not far behind (which together with the aforementioned "Hot Bottom Feeder" is where the album's great production is best appreciated).

The last cut is "Lorelei", the longest of the entire LP, which gives off an atmosphere and intensity that seems to be taken from Monster Magnet's "Last Patrol".

Clutch have done it again. Only time will tell if "Book of Bad Decisions" is better than this or that album by the band, but what I am sure of is that this is one of the best collections of songs that Maryland has ever composed.

(Metalcry.com)