Album of the Week: The Gems- Phoenix

- January 26, 2024

WORDS BY ANSELM

The Gems is a new name for the rock scene. However, the members are familiar to fans of the Female Swedish rock act Thundermother. Last February, the band shocked the rock world by firing Lead singer Guernica Mancini. Bassist Mona Lindgren and drummer Emlee Johansson soon followed suit with a show of loyalty to their long-term friend. The result is Phoenix, the debut album released today via Napalm Records.

The 16-track release is a hard rock album and a mission statement. The trio rise from the ashes to fulfil their rock ‘n’ roll potential. Produced by Johan Randén, the album was mastered by Plec Johansson (Soilwork, Hank von Hell, Firewind). The decision to hire these gentlemen gives justice to the women. They almost sound relieved as the shackles are off. The women are free to experiment with different genres of rock on Phoenix.

So, that is enough from the rambling man, let’s transpire with the review.

The album starts with a song called “Aurora, ” an acapella performance by Mancini. In this song, she expresses herself through the lyrics “In the face of misfortune, we rise up again. Just like a phoenix from the ashes of pain.” This allows the singer to reveal her feelings towards her former bandmates. Next up is “Queens”, a feminist anthem with tasty blues licks, supplemented by Mancini’s distinctive soulful vocals. The album gives her carte blanche to show the world her captivating voice. Throughout the album, Mancini delivers a lung-busting performance across an exceptional display from guitarist Lindgren and drummer Johansson.

Photo Courtesy of Mikael Halten

“Send Me to the Wolves” is a powerful and passionate anthem with a message of perseverance, highlighted by captivating blues. The boogie rock on “Domino” and “Silver Tongue” is influenced by 1980s and 70’s classic rock. In contrast, the slow-burning “Unspecified Paths”, “Fruits of Labour” and “Ease Your Pain” are emotional numbers that show another side to the trio. As long-term readers know, I am not a fan of these types of songs. However, I feel these add depth and variation to the heavier rock tracks.

Nevertheless, my only criticism is the reliance on interludes to balance the album out. I feel this is unnecessary and stretches the release out. Moreover, this isn’t a criticism of the album as a whole. I fully enjoyed listening to a modern rock release in which the artists have so much fun and freedom to get back to basics: Which is pure rock ‘n’ roll!

The women deviate from blues and ballads to show this with the energetic rock tracks “Like a Phoenix”, and “P.S.Y.C.H.O”, showcasing a love for full-throttle riffs and earworm choruses.

Finally, the album takes a well-earned rest with an acoustic version of “Like A Phoenix”. Overall, The Gems prove there is life after Thundermother. They are finally allowed to show they were the undiscovered gems of the project…and they truly shine on Phoenix.

Rating: 9/10

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