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6 Degrees Entertainment

Title - Generation Mind
Artist - Black Swan

Rock band Black Swan are newcomers onto the music scene, but they are also prolific, with Generation Mind being their second album released in two years.

And the best way to describe this sophomore release is magnetic. Right out the gate, they draw the listeners in and don’t let go.

But even though the band is new, the music is not. Black Swan is a supergroup, of sorts, with its members having comprised some of the most recognizable groups of past decades: Robin McAuley (lead vocals ; Survivor), Reb Beach (guitar; Winger, Whitesnake), Jeff Pilson (bass; Foreigner, Dokken), and Matt Starr (drums; Mr. Big).

So if the vibes given off seem familiar, there’s a good reason for that.

1. Before the Light
2. She Hides Behind
3. Generation Mind
4. Eagles Fly
5. See You Cry
6. Killer on the Loose
7. Miracle
8. How Do You Feel
9. Long Way Down
10. Crown
11. Wicked the Day
12. I Will Follow

The opening track, “Behind the Light,” is a ramp up, lasting only a few seconds. The fuzzy guitars build and build, soon exploding into “She Hides Behind,” which is one of those songs that you can get a speeding ticket to if you listen to it while driving. Exercise caution.

And while the band is full of rock superstars in their own rights, there were moments here and there in which the guitar work seems reminiscent of Joe Satriani, or the vocals of Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider — each time in the best possible way.

In addition to being the album’s title track, “Generation Mind” is the album’s best track. Not only is it a straight-up jam, but it contains a tangible message, urging the listener to listen only to their own individual truth in a world that so often lies.

Similarly, “Eagles Fly” is a tune driven by the guitars and drums that depicts a battle with a laser-eyed monster.

This tune, perhaps more than any other, drove home the point that Black Swan are a concert band. I sincerely hope they tour widely, and soon.

“Stay With Me” is a song of steadier tempo with a message of unflinching loyalty, and for its relatively slower pace is no less shredding.

Just as this whole album is so far beyond excellent.

Immediately upon it ending, I immediately went back and played it again, a sure sign of a band destined to become a long term favorite. What a delight.

Review by: Ashley J. Cicotte

Black Swan’s Generation Mind is available on all major streaming platforms.

Black Swan - Eagles Fly [Official Video]

Black Swan @ Facebook





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