By Danica Ward
Staff Writer
“When she begins to rock, honey, I begin to roll.”
On Feb. 11, incomparable punk rock band Social Distortion celebrated the 34th anniversary of its fourth studio album, “Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell.”
The band, formed in 1978 and led by singer Mike Ness, is known for its hits like “Ball and Chain,” “Dear Lover” and its cover of Johnny Cash’s “Ring of Fire.”
Released in 1992, “Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell” epitomizes Social Distortion’s unique style. The album, which has an 11-song tracklist lasting 44 minutes, succinctly sums up the power of the band.
For a time period consumed by the tail end of the hair metal craze and the beginning of the Seattle grunge scene, Social Distortion created its own sound. With the power of members Ness, rhythm guitarist Dennis Danell, bassist John Maurer and drummer Christopher Reece, the band molded multiple sub-genres to create its signature rockabilly sound.
The tracklist starts out rocking with “Cold Feelings,” which kicks the album into high gear, setting the tone for energy that persists throughout.
Songs like “Bad Luck,” “Bye Bye Baby” and “When She Begins” create an impenetrable wall of sound, thanks to help from producer Dave Jerden, who also worked with Alice in Chains, Jane’s Addiction and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The band themselves are also to be praised for their consistent melodic riffs and memorable lyrics.
The voice of Ness is immediately recognizable, with his ability to blend and switch between rough rock and bluesy country. Though the guitar chords may seem simple, they lay the foundation for the saloon rock style that the band encompasses.
With that, other songs like “99 to Life” and “This Time Darlin’” flex the vibe of the album, providing a break from the constant force and aiding with a slower, bluesy mood that is filled with harmonies and lament.
A standout song off the album is “Making Believe,” which is surprisingly a cover of Kitty Wells’ 1955 song, as it sounds so natural and form-fitting to Social Distortion’s unique style.
“Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell” continues the high-energy rock of Social Distortion. From the unrelenting power chords to the sturdy rhythm section, the album acts as the perfect intro guide to what Social Distortion is all about.
