Unblackened Zakk Wylde Black Label Society Live ( 2013 )

Unblackened: A Deep Dive into Zakk Wylde and Black Label Society's Acoustic Masterpiece

Released in 2013, Unblackened is more than just a live album or DVD; it's a profound reimagining of the Black Label Society (BLS) catalog, showcasing the versatility of Zakk Wylde and his band. Far from the amplified ferocity often associated with BLS, Unblackened strips away the distortion, revealing the raw emotion and songwriting prowess that underpins their heavy metal anthems. This article delves into the intricacies of Unblackened, exploring its genesis, musical arrangements, performance dynamics, and its enduring legacy as a testament to the depth and breadth of Zakk Wylde's artistic vision.

The Genesis of Unblackened: A Journey Beyond Distortion

Black Label Society, formed in 1998 by Zakk Wylde, is primarily known for its hard-hitting, guitar-driven heavy metal. Their signature sound is characterized by crushing riffs, thunderous drums, and Wylde's signature pinch harmonics. The concept of an acoustic-based album, therefore, represented a significant departure for the band. The idea for Unblackened wasn't entirely novel, however. Wylde had previously explored acoustic territories in his solo work, demonstrating a softer, more introspective side. The decision to apply this approach to the BLS material allowed for a fresh perspective on familiar songs, exposing the underlying melodies and lyrical content often buried beneath layers of distortion.

The album title itself, Unblackened, is a clever play on words, signifying a stripping away of the blackened sound of heavy metal, revealing the unblackened heart of the music. It's a visual and auditory representation of the band's willingness to experiment and showcase their musicality in a different light. The live performance was recorded at Club Nokia in Los Angeles, creating an intimate atmosphere that further enhanced the acoustic experience.

Musical Arrangements: Deconstructing and Rebuilding

The success of Unblackened hinges on the masterful arrangements of the songs. Rather than simply performing the songs acoustically, Wylde and his band meticulously reworked each track, emphasizing different instrumentation and vocal harmonies. The result is a collection of songs that feel both familiar and entirely new. The inclusion of piano, pedal steel guitar, and backing vocals added layers of depth and complexity to the arrangements, transforming heavy metal anthems into soulful ballads and blues-infused rockers.

Key changes, altered tempos, and the introduction of new melodic lines further contributed to the reimagining of the songs. For example, the normally aggressive Stillborn is transformed into a haunting, almost mournful ballad, with Wylde's vocals carrying a palpable sense of vulnerability. Similarly, The Blessed Hellride retains its powerful chorus but is delivered with a more understated intensity, allowing the lyrical content to take center stage.

The following table highlights some of the key musical changes in select tracks:

Performance Dynamics: Intimacy and Connection

The live performance captured in Unblackened is characterized by an intimacy that is often absent from traditional heavy metal concerts. The smaller venue, the absence of overwhelming amplification, and the focus on acoustic instruments create a more direct connection between the band and the audience. Wylde's stage presence remains commanding, but it's tempered by a sense of vulnerability and authenticity. He engages with the audience, sharing anecdotes and personal stories that further enhance the emotional connection.

The band's performance is equally impressive. The musicians demonstrate their versatility and skill, seamlessly transitioning between acoustic and electric instruments, and delivering nuanced performances that capture the essence of each song. The backing vocals add a crucial layer of depth and richness, complementing Wylde's lead vocals and creating a powerful harmonic blend. Special guests, such as Greg Locascio on backing vocals and piano, and John DeServio on bass (also playing upright bass on some tracks), contribute to the overall sonic tapestry of the performance.

The dynamic between Wylde and his bandmates is palpable. There's a clear sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, which translates into a cohesive and engaging performance. The band's ability to adapt to the acoustic setting and deliver a performance that is both powerful and intimate is a testament to their musical talent and professionalism.

Track-by-Track Analysis: A Deeper Dive

The following is a brief analysis of some of the standout tracks on Unblackened, highlighting their unique qualities and musical arrangements:

• Losin' Your Mind: A blues-infused rendition of a BLS classic, featuring a prominent piano intro and harmonica solo. The song takes on a raw, almost improvisational feel, showcasing Wylde's blues sensibilities.
• The Blessed Hellride: This powerful anthem is transformed into a more introspective and emotionally resonant version. The pedal steel guitar adds a country/blues flavor, while the vocal harmonies enhance the song's overall impact.
• Sold My Soul: A slower, more deliberate performance that emphasizes the lyrical content. Wylde's vocals are particularly emotive, conveying a sense of regret and vulnerability.
• Road Back Home: A poignant ballad that showcases Wylde's songwriting prowess. The acoustic arrangement allows the melody and lyrics to shine through, creating a truly memorable moment.
• Spoke in the Wheel: The addition of the Hammond organ provides a new texture to the song, enhancing its already powerful feel. Wylde's guitar playing is exceptional, and the vocal harmonies are haunting and beautiful.
• Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow: The piano arrangement elevates the emotional depth of the song.
• Takillya (Estyabon): This acoustic instrumental piece showcases Wylde's virtuosic guitar playing. It's a complex and intricate composition that highlights his technical skills and musical creativity.
• Won't Find It Here: Stripped bare, this song emphasizes Wylde's voice and his ability to convey raw emotion.
• Rust: A heavier song in the setlist, the acoustic version retains its power through Wylde's strong vocal delivery and the band's tight playing.
• Queen of Sorrow: Already a ballad, this song is further stripped down, emphasizing Wylde's vocal performance and the song's inherent emotional power.
• Sleeping Dogs: A powerful track highlighted by strong vocal performances and a driving acoustic rhythm.
• The Hammer & The Nail: This song is made even more poignant in the acoustic format.
• Come to Jesus: The acoustic treatment reveals the gospel influences in this track, highlighted by backing vocals.
• Stillborn: Perhaps the most surprising transformation on the album, Stillborn becomes a haunting and melancholic ballad. The piano and acoustic guitar create a somber atmosphere, while Wylde's vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and regret.

The Legacy of Unblackened: A Testament to Artistry

Unblackened is more than just a live album; it's a testament to Zakk Wylde's artistry and the versatility of Black Label Society. It demonstrates that heavy metal can be both powerful and intimate, aggressive and vulnerable. The album's success lies in its ability to reimagine familiar songs in a new and compelling way, revealing the underlying melodies and lyrical content often obscured by distortion. It cemented Wylde's reputation as not only a guitar virtuoso, but also a skilled songwriter and vocalist.

Unblackened has been praised by critics and fans alike for its innovative arrangements, powerful performances, and emotional depth. It has inspired other metal bands to explore acoustic territories, demonstrating the potential for creativity and innovation within the genre. The album's enduring legacy lies in its ability to transcend genre boundaries and connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.

The following table summarizes the critical reception of Unblackened:

Conclusion: Beyond the Black

Unblackened stands as a significant achievement in Black Label Society's discography. It's a bold and unexpected exploration of their musical landscape, stripping away the layers of distortion to reveal the core of their songwriting. Through meticulous arrangements, intimate performances, and a willingness to experiment, Zakk Wylde and his band have created a truly unique and compelling work of art. Unblackened is a reminder that true artistry transcends genre boundaries and that even the heaviest of bands can find beauty and power in the acoustic realm. It remains a testament to the enduring talent and creativity of Zakk Wylde and Black Label Society, and a must-listen for any fan of heavy metal or acoustic music.