Album Review: Alice In Chains - Rainier Fog

They were one of the heavyweights of the '90s metal/grunge scene, successfully blending melodic, down-tuned riffs and harmonies with crunching distortion and classic rock elements.

Of course, theirs is a tale of tragedy with the drug issues and subsequent death of singer Layne Staley curtailing them for a decade, but it is also one of resurrection, determination and integrity.

Recruiting vocalist William DuVall 12 years ago, they've churned out three accomplished albums that have built on the band's legacy. The latest, Rainier Fog takes the revitalised feel of their comeback album Black Gives Way To Blue and improves on the middling The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, with rewarding results.

Leading the pack is first single The One You Know with its serrated riff and headbanging call to arms. Jerry Cantrell and DuVall's vocal harmonies are instantly recognisable as the song opens into a soaring, 'eyes on the horizon' type chorus. The title track, a reference to weather in Seattle and a tribute to the scene they grew out of, is another gem. Less metal and more of a churning punk feel, it springs from the speakers with a surging glam rush. Red Giant sounds like an outtake from the Dirt album while Maybe showcases their ability to blend acoustic guitars and sweeter melodies without losing the weight of their sound. Never Fade is the only real misfire in that it tries to blend the sound of Rage Against The Machine and Stone Temple Pilots on an average song.

Alice In Chains are still bound to their past but they've found a way to maintain relevance, grace and swagger with each new album they release and remain a benchmark in the world of hard rock.