Album Review: Chris Shiflett - Hard Lessons

If you want a simple little something under the blues-rock genre, Chris Shiflett’s Hard Lessons will do nicely. The new solo offering from the Foo Fighters guitarist is a far cry from the usual alt-rock tendencies we’re familiar with and is instead Shiflett veering into ragamuffin rock with pretty groovy results.

Shiflett vibes on the classic rock mantra of bands like The Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival, that much is clear, particularly in standout track This Ol’ World. Despite being from California, Shiflett grooves through Weak Heart with a cute southern twang in his vocals, before mounting his heart on his sleeve in Marfa On My Mind. Overall, Shiflett’s style of songwriting is made up of rock‘n’roll necessities: simple story, basic chords, no frills, all thrills. Throw in a few Kenny Wayne Shepherd-esque country licks in tracks like Welcome To Your First Heartache, and Shiflett’s own interest in genres outside those for which he’s known, and you’ve got a country-rock album with a song that suits every occasion.

He’s not the best vocalist in the world, it has to be said, but it’s the simplicity and approachability of Shiflett’s songwriting that’s the draw here. No fuss, no muss, Hard Lessons is an easy rock listen that neatly satisfies, suitably impresses, and is palatable enough to be kept in regular rotation.