Upon initial listen and review, Natural Child’s newest offering Be M’Guest had me feeling all kinds of ways. Excitement burst through my veins as one of my favorite bands announced a new record and let the world hear their first single, but while my feelings ranged from interested to happy to disappointed and finally to relieved, I tried to keep to a level head and listen to the album for what it was and not slap a naive and expectant lens over the entire project.
The Natural Child lexicon spans multiple genres and vibes, mostly centered around good old fashion rock and roll mixed with partying references and memorable lyrics to sing along with. At first glance, Be M’Guest checks off all those boxes and then some.
My rollercoaster of a listen started from the top with “Mexican Adderall” which was poised to be a rip-roaring sample of the good ole days in Natty Child’s career. In place of ripping and roaring I found myself wanting more as the track faded out after just over two minutes. An alright way to kick off the new record, but not the strongest showing from the boys.
As the Mexican Adderall wore off, I was more than displeased to find the band’s second and most recent single slotted in the two spot. “Tell Me I’m Wrong” is reminiscent of the slower acoustic ballads Natural Child does so well though I wasn’t so convinced after my first listen. I hate to say it, but I’d like to tell the boys that they were indeed wrong on this one. At least maybe they could have put the track in a better pocket somewhere safe on the album. I don’t hate it, it’s just not my favorite.
Single number one was up next as “Little Magic” blessed the three hole in the lineup. I could see this track being one of the bigger guys on the team making sure the first two landed and the album didn’t take a major face plant at the plate. “Little Magic” caught me from the beginning and continues to draw me closer as it whispers sweet nothings in my ear. Did the two singles have to take an early lead in this release or is that just good PR? I don’t know, but it’s not the worst thing that could have happened.
The one through three batters proved to give me mixed feelings straight out the gate, but I held on in hopes and fear that this offering wouldn’t continue on the flat line it created in me.
A bona-fide head bopper in “Check The Mirror” got me moving, and I mean moving, in my driver’s seat. A breath of relief left my body and the groove took over the rest. I love a good bluesy track with a rockin’ backbeat. Safe to say I forgot to check my mirrors because I was lost in the sauce of this railroad jammer.
The remainder of the album brought out smiles and multiple stank faces from an array of instant classics filled with stylish riffs, groovy backbones, and the signature double vocals I’ve been missing so much. Highlights from the de facto second half of the record include the dreamy “Margaritas In The Moonlight,” “Swanee,” and my personal favorite and charcoal fueled “Scootin’.”
“Gin and Wine” came out as a pleasant surprise with its A+ song writing and composition. Reminding me of classic country rock tunes “Gin and Wine” serves as a pleasant way to help close out what turned out to be a great reintroduction to the band. I’m not surprised the band could dole out such great writing skills, but with years of hiatus and my imagined rocky start to the record, Natural Child proved me wrong and dispelled my hesitations. I guess when you love a band so much sometimes you worry that their next offering will land short of your expectations. Let’s face it, these guys aren’t AC/DC and there’s no tried and true formal to create a Natural Child Album. Just maybe some drugs and margs, but those are only the essentials.
With a classic send off, Natural child gives us their farewell track in the acoustic style that left us on many of their earlier records. “American Con Carne” leaves its listeners happy and full after a long fun filled day accompanied by some good tequila and a midnight snack that will put you to sleep in seconds.
I’m in like with this album so far, but that’s not to say that our relationship won’t excel into bigger and better things. It’s a new Natural Child album and that’s grounds to celebrate. I’d give this one a strong 7/10after multiple listens. I’m sure it’ll grow on me once the booze starts flowing this weekend and the good vibes seep into my pores.
Natural Child is back baby. Let’s fucking party!
Comments