Anyone who knows me will know that Alice in Chains was and will always be one my favorite bands, and biggest musical influences. What is not to like? Layne Staley’s vocals, Jerry Cantrell’s wonderful guitar work and songwriting, and the bands sludgy/haunting/melodic tunes. They have been one of those bands that made me think “Damn, why didn’t I think to write a song like that?!”

Then came the passing of late Layne Staley. I was heartbroken. There was no voice quite like his. He carried his torment and pain in such a beautiful way. So, when I saw the “new” AIC with new vocalist, William DuVall, couple years ago on TV, I had some reservations, but happy that they still carried on musically.

Out came Black Gives Way to Blue, the new album after well over a decade. I’m obsessed with this album. If you’re going to make some old/new AIC comparisons and not give the new lineup a chance, you may be disappointed. To me, it’s still 100% AIC. Layne may have been the voice of AIC, but Jerry Cantrell was always the heart. With the death of Staley, it definitely didn’t take the solidity and talent out of this amazing band. DuVall may not be as vocally strong and distinctive as Staley, but he does his best in his own way and can hold his own. When paired with Cantrell, they are absolutely and harmonically beautiful.

It’s not their strongest or best album, but there are handful of tracks that remind why I love this band in the first place. Personal favorites of mine are All Secrets Known, Your Decision, A Looking in View, Acid Bubble, Lesson Learned, Take Her Out, and Private Hell.