Record Label: S/R
Genre: Grunge
Band Link: link
Buy on Amazon.com link

Sorry for being politically incorrect, but I’m always really intrigued when an all-black rock band comes on the scene. I mean, let’s be honest here – rock n roll is a white-dominated genre (even though its roots came from whites stealing and popularizing the basics from blues and r&b). But cmon, think about it – in the past 30 years of modern rock, can you think of any all-black rock band besides Bad Brains and Living Colour? See, there ya go.

So Red Lotus is certainly unique, and what makes them more unique is that they’re female-fronted. The singer has a powerful voice; while such great range is common in r&b, you don’t normally hear it in rock. “I’ll Be Here” is a wonderful example of how traditionally black r&b vocals can be brilliantly used against a rock backdrop. But it’s integrated flawlessly – there’s no disconnect between the soaring vocals and the rock guitar and drums. Her backup does a seamless job in accomodating her style, giving them a fully powerful and cohesive sound.

The only drawback is that the complete package; while unique, it doesn’t sound modern. The pace, 70s style guitars, grunge distortion, and radio-friendly structures scream 1990s, for better or worse (for me, worse). If the vocals weren’t so strong, I’d shrug them off as a too-little, too-late above-average grunge band.

Bottom Line: Powerful female vox front a unique all-black grunge band.
Notable Tracks: Superwoman, I’ll Be Here
Overall Rating: