Mos Generator  Takes Us On A Rousing Romp Through The ‘Shadowlands’

The prolific Port Orchard, Washington trio MOS GENERATOR has been cooking up another feisty full-length rocker for us. The eight songs of ‘Shadowlands’ (2018), out May 18th, make up one incredible release and I’m very happy to be reviewing it for you guys. I know this band is a big one for a lot of people out there and this, full disclosure, is my first proper initiation into a Mos Generator album, as I’ve previously only listened to a song or two here and there. I am happy to report that this is an excellent album full of powerful riffs and influences that range from Led Zeppelin to Lynyrd Skynyrd, not to mention some fantastic vocal work.

The title track introduces the album and is one of the more rocking tunes on the album (not that they all don’t rock). The opening riff is southern-flavored, with a heaping helping of Zeppelin swagger. As it leads into the first verse, it gets heavier and then lightens for the verse itself. This surprised me, but generated some genuine excitement to hear how this song would play out. I love the verse riffs, especially, and Tony’s vocals are suitably matched with them. “Shadowlands” is a killer song any way you slice it and a great way to open up the album.

The album closes in grand fashion, too, with “The Wild and the Gentle Dogs.” The acoustic guitar that ushers us into the opening moments the track is beautifully written. Sean Booth’s bass work is deliciously well-played. Vocally, this sounds like Dave Brockie has returned from the grave to add his truculent style to this wicked number, only in the visage of Tony Reed. The midsection of the song is an ominously toned riff. Listen on for a lead that Jimmy Page would be proud to call his own. This is just a seriously badass song from start to finish.

“Drowning in Your Loving Cup” is awesome, too. I really like the lyrical content, which is well suited to the thematic power and catchy rhythm of the music. There are once again spots where Tony has that Dave Brockie tone to his voice. I love that, as I sorely miss Dave Brockie’s musical escapades.

My top pick here, though, is “The Destroyer.” It’s easy to get into Tony’s driving guitar play, which works perfectly with the Jon Garrett’s steady-on drumming. The breakout leads and guitar licks bear a distinct Jimmy Page influence, an element of Mos Generator that I feel never gets old. The chorus is enormous and as catchy as anything on the album. Every aspect of this track speaks to me in a phenomenal way.

Shadowlands is a fantastic listen, brilliantly conceived and executed, an LP that fans old and new alike will be able to really sink their teeth into. Mos Generator has stacked the deck with everything a good album ought to have: killer riffs, strong songwriting, great vocal work, and the ability to wear one’s influences on the sleeve, while carving out a distinct sound. May 18th is the street date for this Listenable Records spin. I think you’d be well advised to grab this great album and give it a prime place in your collection.

Mos Generator on Tour

(with Fu Manchu)

• May 1st - Rebel Lounge – Phoenix, AZ
• May 3rd - Curtain Club – Dallas, TX
• May 4th - Barracuda – Austin, TX
• May 4th - White Oak Music Hall – Houston, TX
• May 7th - Vinyl – Atlanta, GA
• May 8th - Kings – Raleigh, NC
• May 9th - Rock & Roll Hotel – Washington, DC
• May 10th - Brillobox – Pittsburgh, PA *
• May 11th - Underground Arts – Philadelphia, PA
• May 12th - Bowery Ballroom – New York, NY
• May 13th - Brighton Music Hall – Allston, MA
• May 14th - Mohawk Place – Buffalo, NY *
• May 15th - Grog Shop – Cleveland, OH
• May 16th - Ace Of Cups – Columbus, OH
• May 17th - El Club – Detroit, MI
• May 18th - The Baby G – Toronto, ON *
• May 19th - Bottom Lounge – Chicago, IL
• May 20th - Total Drag Records – Sioux Falls, SD *
• May 22nd - Streets of London Pub – Denver, CO
• May 23rd - Streets of London Pub – Denver, CO
• May 25th - Substation – Seattle, WA*
• May 26th - The Manette – Bremerton, WA *

* Mos Generator only