Fractured Mindz

As a founding member of the Kinks, Dave Davies emphasized the sonic violence of the power chord. It gave the Kinks a tumultuous edge among the ‘60s British Invasion groups and provided an elemental base for heavy metal and punk rock. Forty-plus years and a stroke that left him temporarily paralyzed on the right side of his body later, Davies' release of Fractured Mindz in 2007 shows no signs of slowing down. The tough, spirited, garage-rock rhythm of “Free Me,” with its splattering power chords and manic, squeaky guitar solos exhibits the same anarchic sense that made the Kinks an aggressive delight. Though he spent his career in the shadow of his great songwriting brother Ray, Dave could pen the memorable tune as well (his “Death of a Clown” remains among many Kinks’ fans favorites). Davies is loose and deliciously unpolished here. “This is the Time” addresses the stress of the information age with a robust assault. “Come to the River” is wicked blues. Spiritual concerns and his own physical post-stroke struggles are laced throughout, providing gravity to Davies’ musical flights.