SOCIAL DISTORTION/WHITE LIGHT, WHITE HEAT, WHITE TRASH (Sony BK 64380)

As far as sound goes, Social Distortion does one thing and does it exceptionally well. They rock their asses off. This album is no exception.

The disc kicks into high gear immediately with "Dear Lover," not only one of the best tracks here but also one of Social D’s best tracks period. Bandleader and songwriter Mike Ness outdid himself here as "White Light, White Heat, White Trash" is the most consistent album that the band has ever released. That’s really saying something because I think Social Distortion may in fact be one of the most consistent rock bands ever. The band scored a hit with "I Was Wrong," the forth track here, and managed to get a lot of attention from the currently hip modern rock radio format. "When The Angels Sing," "Don’t Drag Me Down," and "Through These Eyes" are the gems here and certain additions to the Social D best of list. The disc also contains a ‘hidden’ track, a run-through of the Rolling Stones’ classic "Under My Thumb."

A special note, Mike Ness’ songwriting just keeps getting better and better. This album has some of the most creative and well-crafted lyrics that the hard rock genre has ever produced. I’m already anxious to hear their next release. Go Social D!