Hangover Music Vol. VI

Hangover Music Vol. VI is a singular work on which BLACK LABEL SOCIETY took a little distance from its heavy-riff-centered form and turned toward acoustic guitar, piano and melancholy-tinged melody. Zakk Wylde’s singing keeps its strength while showing a more fragile, delicate expression. The songwriter side behind the band’s hard-nosed image is deeply explored. On “Crazy or High,” “Queen of Sorrow” and “Woman Don't Cry,” the guitar’s presence remains strong even while quiet. In particular, “Layne” is a song dedicated to Layne Staley of Alice in Chains, who died in 2002, carrying a deep sense of mourning. A cover of Procol Harum’s classic “Whiter Shade of Pale” is also included. With a dark temperature and a rock feel coexisting, it is a flavorful record showing the band’s unexpected depth.