Black Lips - Drugs (Vice Records)

Jared Lynn | Tuesday, 25 August 2009

The Black Lips are perhaps known for their outrageous on-stage antics as much as their music. Stage invasions, nudity, urinating, kissing each other and flaming guitars, the Black Lips have done it all. But they've also released some pretty fine music along the way, and 'Drugs' offers more of the same.

'Drugs' sums up the Black Lips persona and style. Taking influence from doo-wop, rock, country and punk, it's a messy, high-octane song, held together precariously by an infectious bluesy riff. It's an obvious nod to the New York Dolls, and that's certainly not a bad thing. 'Drugs' is a risky tune, and at times you feel like it's lost control, but then the riff drags it back into line. It's frantic and all over the shop, but it just works.

If you're a fan of the Black Lips then you'll love 'Drugs', but if you hate their relentless energy, shocking antics and frenzied songwriting then it's unlikely to do anything to change your mind. 'Drugs' is a reflection of the Black Lips, the only surprising thing being that it's taken them five albums to release such a self-defining track.

Rating: 3.5/5