Folklore and Superstition

Kentucky’s Black Stone Cherry are one of the most appealing young hard rock groups to come around in some time, combining their southern rock roots with the emotive passion of modern hard rock to create a powerful weave of intricate guitar riffing and indelible melodies. Chris Robertson sings with maximum authority and a hint of fragility lurking underneath his machismo blasts, as much Eddie Vedder as Skynyrd’s Ronnie Van Zant. That’s a real “please” he issues during “Please Come In” and there’s pure sentiment behind the haunting ballad “Things My Father Said.” Just as their 2006 self-titled debut exhibited the band’s elevated musicianship, this 2008 follow-up adds to their arsenal of musical chops. Drummer John Fred Young twists the standard hard rock beats with quick, intense flourishes (“Blind Man,” “Reverend Wrinkle”) that give the band an extra edge. “Peace is Free” evolves into a singalong anthem with all members contributing, while “Sunrise” jumpcuts into a reggae groove for its chorus.