Collective Soul Blender review

One thing that has marked Collective Soul's career is that each successive album has shown musical growth and an entry into new territory for the band. Blender is further proof of the band's desire to mature and grow as musicians while being true to the fact that they are a rock band. Ross Childress has emerged as a great lead guitarist and drummer Shane Evans' use of loops has really progressed to become an important part of the Collective Soul sound. Will Turpin is an excellent bassist and Dean Roland will always be underrated as a guitarist due to Childress' prowess. Produced by lead singer Ed Roland and Anthony J. Resta (Duran Duran, Shawn Mullins) , Blender offers lots of variety, from the grinding rock of "You Speak My Language" to the soon-to-be-radio-hits "Why Pt. 2" and "Boast." Some fans may be surprised by "Perfect Day," which features Elton John, but lets face it, if you have the chance to work with a legend, you take it. Collective Soul shows that they have the ability to move all over the musical map and do it well. Blender is their best and most adventurous album to date, and that says quite a bit.