Originally auditioning for CC DeVille's spot in Poison, Slash was noticed by Axl Rose and company, and the rest is history. Slash's exploits and musical achievements in Guns N' Roses are legendary, and there's no need for a reintroduction, except that to say by the time he threw in the towel around 1996 there was no denying his place in rock history had been long since established.
We've already had "solo" material from Slash before, the likes of Snakepit and his post GNR project Velvet Revolver entertained and encouraged fist throwing in equal measures, but nothing on the scale of this latest solo effort. Imagine, if you can, a Live Aid type event - except none of the money is going to charity - and it's all run by Slash! That's pretty much what you're dealing with here, a plethora of rock's finest voices, and greatest performers.
Straight away Cult vocalist Ian Astbury and former GNR guitarist Izzy Stradlin knock us sideways with 'Ghost'. Black Rain sounding 'Crucify The Dead' features Ozzy Osbourne and Slash strumming through a typical ballad, and while it's not the worst material Osbourne has committed to tape, neither is it his best. Fergie from the Black Eyed Peas makes an appearance, and while no one can deny her vocal talents, this is unlikely to make an impression upon the committed rocker.
The strongest material on this album comes from the established vocalists, such as Chris Cornell's powerful 'Promise' and Kid Rock's 'I Hold On'. There's more guest spots from Guns N' Roses more famous former faces, both Steven Adler and Duff McKagan contribute and even Josh Freese (who actually co-wrote the song 'Chinese Democracy' with Axl Rose) turns up to play drums with the house band.
The lead single, 'By The Sword', features Andrew Stockdale of Wolfmother and is a fair representation of the entire record. Adam Levine's appearance on the other hand sounds like, well, a Maroon 5 ballad. But, with Slash's powerful grooves, it makes you wonder what would happen if M5 just dropped the moniker and started swearing.
If you're expecting an AC/DC type rock and roll affair then you're halfway there - but you have to have an open mind - as Slash has successfully made himself both outspoken and radio friendly.
Rating: 4/5