Clutch
“Robot Hive: Exodus”
DRT Records

Clutch is back with their seventh studio album. To the surprise of know one they are still the same Bluesy, Stoner rock monsters that you either love or hate. Some surprises are in store for the long time fan, including the addition of a full time Keyboardist. “Robot Hive” brings the funk and Clutch after all these years take no prisoners.

“The Incomparable Mr. Flannery” starts this bong hit off right. Tight, bluesy, and downright dirty. Guitarist Tim Sults dazzles with his guitar work. Stop and start crushing guitar grooves are still Clutch’s calling card. You’re either gonna get funky with this album right away or dismiss it. Thunderous bass lines compliment all the guitar work very well.

“Burning Beard” is classic clutch. “Circus Maximus” is the record’s strangest track, complete with all kinds of bizarre percussion instruments, but never letting go of the Clutch groove. It is impressive that Clutch have lasted well over 10 years. Showing even more musical diversity the band chooses to cap off this album with two straight up blues covers of Mississippi Fred McDowell's "Gravel Road" and Howlin Wolf’s “Who’s Been Talking." Highly recommended.

Reviewed by: Adam Circumstance
Reviewed on: August 16, 2005