A Looking In View - Alice in Chains

After 14 long years, Alice in Chains released their much awaited 4th studio album in October this year. The question on everybody's mind was how the band would replace its iconic lead singer, Layne Staley, who tragically passed away in 2002. But die-hard AIC fans need not worry, as replacement William Duvall does more than a capable job, sounding eerily similar to Layne while not exactly imitating him either.
The lead single off the album is the 7 minute long 'A Looking in View'. It carries on the dark,sludgy sound that was first introduced on AIC's self titled album (released in 1995). From the moment the down-tuned, heavily distorted guitars kick in, you know that this is not some re-hashed attempt at former glory, this IS Alice in Chains. William Duvall's vocals are mixed at par with Jerry Cantrell's for most of the song, although you do get to hear his voice stand on its own. However, when Duvall and Cantrell harmonize their vocals, the song is at its best. The chorus is catchy by AIC standards, but on the downside, the song is a bit too long for its own good. Some of the riffs and lyrics are repeated too often, losing its effect. Also, I couldn't help but wish for a guitar solo by Jerry Cantrell. Overall the song is a fine return for one of Grunge music's big 4. For long time fans, 'A Looking In View' will fit in perfectly with the band's classics, a haunting and eerie rocker. For non-fans, do give it a listen, this is real grunge music, not the post-grunge bullsh*t that's being spoon-fed to the masses.

"Silence burning, hold your tongue
Keep us separate so they'll know"

Rating : 7.5/10