6/10

After the questionable release that was their 2014 album 'Sonic Highways', many believed that Foo Fighters were finally starting to wind down. Opting more for strung-out harmonies rather than the balls-to-the-wall rock music they built their career on. But it looks like they've got a few more tricks up their sleeve with what Dave Grohl described as the "Moterhead version of Sgt. Peppers". And from the initial listen, we certainly get what he means by that.

Their ninth studio album 'Concrete And Gold' seems to mix the ferocious with the harmonic, creating a fusion of blistering riffs amongst a classic pop disposition. Tracks like 'Make It Right', 'Run' and 'Sunday Rain' present this juxtaposition perfectly, while others mainly look to focus of the lighter side of their sound. The result is a whirlwind of catchy vocals and memorable choruses, splintered with the occasional high-octane guitar lick and thunderous drum structure.

Yet after so many years of great material, it'll be hard for Foo Fighters to ever top their career best, and that is precisely what this record is doesn't try to do. 'Concrete And Gold' is happy enough in its basic fun and isn't looking too hard to be their next hit record. Which actually gives it a far more refreshing tone than most.