Let’s be clear, The Lion The Beast The Beat is a big 'ole rock record. We're a few albums removed from Nothing But the Water, sonically probably even further. But what we hear on this latest collection is perhaps more indicative of what we've come to know about Grace. She’s a big personality and this is a set of songs that not only embraces that but matches it musically. There are some thrilling moments on this album, particularly the title-track which starts things. An almost 80s-ish anthemic, pulsating rocker, "The Lion The Beast The Beat" sets a tone for an album that is unapologetic in its ambition.

Don’t be surprised to see nods going in the direction of Dan Auerbach again. The Black Keys frontman, who has been working with everyone musically from Dr. John to Michael Kiwanuka, did lend a hand to this album. He helped co-write & produce a couple songs and it won’t take the biggest Black Keys fan to figure out which ones ("Never Go Back, "Loneliest Soul"). Now, does The Lion The Beast The Beat have cross-over potential? Absolutely, and for a band that’s been at it as long as Grace & the Nocturnals they’ve earned it. More people discovering this band is a very good thing and it should happen with this album.

Live Performance
Listen to Grace Potter & The Nocturnals set from WXPN's 2012 NonCOMMVention.



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It is always intriguing to watch and hear how an artist evolves.