Buck wild

Buckcherry’s original claim to fame was their crushing drug-themed track “Lit Up” in 1999. After their second album, Timebomb, the band broke up for nearly three years.

In 2005, the band re-formed, but with only two original members: iconic lead singer Josh Todd, and guitarist Keith Nelson. This reincarnation released 15, easily their most popular album largely due to the success of 2006 hit “Crazy Bitch.” And now Buckcherry trudges forward with the release of their fourth album, Black Butterfly.
 
The first single from the album is the bouncy “Too Drunk…” This party anthem sounds like a virtual sequel to the aforementioned “Crazy Bitch,” and shows them continuing their onslaught of songs concerning all things sex, drugs and rock n’ roll.

Nelson’s guitar playing mirrors the electric blues/rock style with a flashy, unforgettable riff. No Buckcherry hit would be complete without Todd’s trenchant voice blazing through it enough to make a path, as he does here. Although not as good as anything from their self-titled debut album, it’s still a good track.
 
“Imminent Bail Out” shows the band returning to the heavy edge their first album was laced with. This sounds like Buckcherry circa 1999, and is easily better than anything from 15. This explosive, full-volume smashfest begs to be blared out in the car or on a loud stereo.

Todd’s voice howls fiercely, and the multitude of guitar tracks greatly enhances the overall badass ride this piece takes you on. This isn’t their best song ever, but deserves a place among some of their top works of destruction.
 
Black Butterfly is a damn good album. Although not as good as their debut, it’s their second best CD, right up there with Timebomb. This is a pleasant surprise, and more than can be expected after the radio-friendly 15 and packs enough of a punch to keep them in the public lexicon.