Connection

Album review

Somehow, some way, Ceramic Dog get angrier and louder on each record. Perhaps it's the pig-dog politicians continuing to get worse or the declining climate issues or the increasing costs of doctors and groceries or just the general ornery feeling that permeates the American and/or human condition. Either way, Marc Ribot's rock-punk (not really punk rock) saddles itself up for another ride.

Though the delivery feels, at times, disingenuous, Connection tells the truth; perhaps that's the reason for the sardonicism? Telling the truth is a hard, unpaying job. Regardless, Ribot delivers line after line of biting commentary until it seems he and the band are close to their breaking point. Then, as if the trio—which also includes Shahzad Ismaily on bass and Ches Smith on drums—knows we need a refreshing jolt of, something else … we get instrumental jam sessions. The near-11 minute blues ripper "Order of Protection" and free-jazzed out "Swan" allow the listener some breathing room. 

This isn't to say the whole record is just a street rant. B-52's-esque "No Name" jumps out as a different path for the band but fits beautifully anyway. Perhaps the best track, "Soldiers in the Army of Love," rollicks and stands as one of the best in Ceramic Dog's short-but-brilliant catalog. The band's anti-violent stance shines supreme despite a seemingly endless list of complaints from Ribot. Sure, the image of a soldier doesn't evoke peaceful vibes, but the army of love awaits enlistment all the same. If the listener decides against joining, maybe the bilingual, raunchy "Heart Attack" provides a better opportunity. Whatever the decision, a Connection awaits. © Jeff Laughlin/Qobuz