The Vines - 'Wicked Nature'

3/10

It may have been a while since The Vines last had their time in the limelight but that hasn't stopped them from continuing with their mission. Now onto album number six, the Australian three-piece have undergone a massive facelift since their last full-length. Two new members have joined that group, replacing the replacements from 2004, making this The Vines 3.0 and once again leaving frontman Craig Nicholls the only recognisable member of the band. But despite the turmoil, the band have returned with a 22-track double album that is looking to reignite the fire the band once had.

Unfortunately, it hasn't quite worked to their advantage. While the band made their name as an explosive, angst-ridden rock outfit, this new material seems far too tame by comparison and ultimately leaves you wanting a little more after each track. The raw passion seems to be vacant from this record as both sides of the album meander helplessly from one modest attempt to the next, without ever making an impact.

There is a part of me that respects Nicholls for pressing on through what can only be imagined is a tough time in the band's career, but once the magic is gone, then its gone for good. And it seems that there is little hope in rekindling it now.

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