Grand Funk Railroad

Survival

Another Gem In Grand Funk's Legacy

Review Score:

(10/10)
The group that defined heavy rock and gave the power trio its definition released another gem in it's legacy. "Survival" is a stunning jaw dropping adventure into blues based power trio rock. The album opens with Country Road which sets the mood for the album. Mark Farner once again play's the infamous Messenger guitar which paved the way for that heavy, rough but sweet sound that came in the early years of Grand Funk Railroad. Mel's bass is once again at it's bone rattling sound. Don Brewer's drumwork is as always unbelievable. Many people have said that Don used pillows to give his drums that machine gun sound on the album. Grand Funk lays down hard driving tracks like "Country Road", "All You've Got is Money", "I Want Freedom" and of course "Gimme Shelter". Grand Funk blows The Rolling Stones away with their version of Gimme Shelter. Farner makes Richards look like a joke with his power and leads throughout Gimme Shelter. Brewer would give Charlie Watts a heartattack if Watts tried to keep up with Brewer's drumming. And Mel, well, Mel like always plays with all the power of the world. Mel Shacher really makes his mark on "Survival" and gives his case why he is the best bass player that ever lived. Think about it, where would Flea be if there was no Mel? GFR also blows Joe Cocker away with their version of "Feelin Alright". GFR adds a jam to the middle of the song and Farner displays his bluesy riffs, and leads. Overall, this album was yet another gem in the package of GFR's legacy. Also, check out the bonus tracks, they are well worth the money. The remastering is excellent and deserves a lot of praise to David K. Tedds.

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