Goodbye, Layne... Hello William: The Resurrection Of Alice In Chains

Alice In Chains (with Layne Staley)

He was such a dumb ass.

I mean seriously, people… have we not learned anything yet from the Jimi, Janis, or Jim Morrison stories of drug abuse and young demise? Not to mention his Seattle brother, Kurt Cobain? I still battle with alternate feelings of his tragedy versus his stupidity. Either way, I’m still mad at you, Layne Staley.

Maybe it’s true that the most talented souls in this world are also the most tortured. Maybe the brightest stars on this earth aren’t capable of burning but for a short time.

I so loved Layne Staley. By gawd, I did! His haunting vocals and signature vibrato permeate to the core and remain unforgettable for Alice In Chains fans, who have never been the same since the spring of 2002, when Layne’s body was found in his apartment, dead for two weeks. Heroin. Mofo heroin. I can’t even imagine how devastated Jerry Cantrell and the surviving members of AIC must have been.

Seven years later, a phoenix has risen from the ashes. Today, Alice In Chains released “Black Gives Way To Blue”, their first CD minus Layne. William Duvall (Comes With The Fall) has undauntedly and reverently stepped into the lead singer role. I’m curious to see whether William will be embraced by AIC fans, or if this will trigger a second wave of mourning for Layne.

I bought the CD today, after hearing a sneak peek a couple weeks ago. The new AIC offering has a bit darker and heavier twist, which I like. The trademark harmonies have made a huge return… for better or for worse. “Check My Brain” and “Lesson Learned” are exceptionally Cantrell/Staley-esque.

RIP, Layne. And welcome, William Duvall… welcome to the Alice In Chains family.



AIC sampler for "Black Gives Way To Blue" CD release 9.29.09

In The Beginning, There Were Power Chords And Drop D Tuning

"So where do you live, Ms. Rock Goddess?" he asked across the bar.
"Front of the stage," she smiled, and was gone.

My life at the front of the stage has been a delicious novel unfolding. New chapters and stories spring from nearly every dirty dive bar and gig I've experienced. I love rock and metal music; it makes my brain smile. I don't know why... I'm just wired that way.

I follow bands. Most are complete unknowns outside of their own city limits. A talented handful of these groups are an exhale away from being discovered and getting their shot. These are the guys who intrigue me and whose stories I write.

After all, every "real" band was once a local band. And their would-be rock star tales are no different: of brotherhood, of ego, jealousy, success, love, and failure.

But when the blazing stage lights switch on... every once in awhile, you get a preview of Heaven.