Nickelback’s “Get Rollin” album review
Originating from Canada, Nickelback has undeniably achieved immense success as one of the most prominent modern rock bands. With over fifty million album sales, they have garnered a distinct following—one that unabashedly loves to hate them. For nearly two decades, Nickelback has faced criticism for being too commercial, formulaic, or simply without valid reason.
Ironically, if the detractors paid closer attention, they would discover that Nickelback's earlier years positioned them alongside other hard rock bands of the new millennium, such as Staind or Godsmack. Tracks like "Breathe" and "Leader of Men" from their 2000 album are testament to this fact. However, their breakthrough album, "Silver Side Up," released in 2001, propelled them to immense success, a trajectory they have sustained ever since. Even if the critics took a moment to listen to their music from 2001 onwards, they would find that Nickelback consistently delivers hard-hitting rock songs alongside their ballads, rivaling the best in the genre.
Nevertheless, Nickelback remains unfazed by the hate because, ultimately, they continue to achieve remarkable success. This brings us to the present day, as they make their return after a five-year hiatus with their tenth album, "Get Rollin'." Released on November 18, 2022, through BMG, this album comes as a surprise to fans. With eleven new songs, the extended break between albums allowed Nickelback to reflect on the direction they wished to pursue. In fact, back in 2019, bassist Mike Kroeger expressed his desire to explore a heavier musical path.
So, the question is, do Nickelback unleash metal riffs on this album? Well, considering their previous ventures into heaviness, it wouldn't be out of character for them. Starting off on a heavy note, the single "San Quentin" features Chad Kroeger's intense, shouted vocals and harsh riffs, creating an intense yet catchy song. Following this, "Skinny Little Missy" maintains a high-energy vibe with its forward-marching chorus. Then, the radio-friendly track "Those Days" takes listeners on a nostalgic journey. Softer than the preceding two cuts, it's a song that resonates with everyone in some way.
The album then takes listeners on a journey through various twists and turns. From the country-rock influences of "High Time" to the bluesy, riff-driven "Vegas Bomb" and the smooth, atmospheric sounds of "Tidal Wave," Nickelback explores different genres and styles. "Does Heaven Even Know You're Missing?" is a beautiful ballad that tugs at the heartstrings, while "Steel Still Rusts" maintains a chilled vibe. "Horizon" offers a glimmer of hope in dark times, and the radio-ready mid-tempo track "Standing in the Dark" precedes the diverse synth-driven sounds of "Just One More" in the album's closing moments.
It's evident that Nickelback took their time with this album, embracing their songwriting prowess. "Get Rollin'" combines various styles and elements from Nickelback's past and present while including moments of more mainstream tracks. Overall, the album presents eleven songs filled with heart and soul. Some are fast-paced, others more relaxed, but all are undeniably enjoyable. I would rank this album 3 out of 4 stars.
We are excited to see if they will announce a tour in the nearby future with this new album.