siLLy puPPy Something about BUCKETHEAD’s infections with robots seems to bring out the best in his musical abilities and finally after quite some time, the chicken lover has finally hatched an egg that’s interesting (at least to my ears!) Emerging from the coop on the very final hours on the last day of 2021, PIKE 302 - CYBORGS ROBOTS & MORE unleashes my favorite sounds of the entire year! Woohoo!!!!

This PIKE slinks past the 29-minute mark and in that regard not too overly different than what has been the case for years. This one features four tracks with the longest being the opening “Cyborg” which hits the 13 1/2 minute mark and features a somewhat new sound to BUCKETHEADLAND. This one has taken the world of alternatives metal and added some interesting new chops to the mix including some new atmospheric backdrops. Just when i think BH has lost all his musical mojo he proves he is still able to unleash something new and actually relevant to the world of heavy rock / metal. This is also the most progressive music BH has released in 2021 with lots of time signature changes and an expanded compositional flow. The mix is pretty spectacular as well with lots of echoes, guitar tones and an infinite supply of creative prowess. Why in the world do i have to endure a sea of mediocrity to wait for these moments of glory? Signed - pissed fan :/

“Robot” follows suit with the same strange atmospheric mix of interesting guitar distortion, keyboard backings and drum, bass and guitar action. Finally BH isn’t afraid to offer some guitar antics that allow his true genius to emerge. The syncopation of the drums with the guitar parts, bass and atmospheric keys is off the chart here! This is part metal, part psychedelic rock and part freak show! OMG two tracks in a row that really rock my world at BUCKETHEADLAND? Pinch me i must be dreaming!

Just when i think the PIKE sure has to derail like they usually do lately, “& More” actually continues my interest! Whew :D While less bold and experimental than the previous offering, it still provides a satisfying guitar based groove that utilizes both power chords and heavy licks. It works and sets itself apart from what came before!

“Woodens Warm-ups” takes the choppy guitar palm-muted effects into different territory yet. Interesting melodies, synergy of guitar, bass, drums and atmospheric keys and an unpredictable journey into a fully fueled compositional approach that isn’t predictable! OMG, can this be true? While this is my least favorite track on this PIKE it’s by no means a throwaway track. It continues the flow of what sets this PIKE apart with satisfying results.

Wow! This PIKE is exactly the reason i stick around and keep listening. Yeah, i’m not thrilled that i have to endure seas of mediocrity to get to nice gems like this one but isn’t that really what life is all about? Sure it’s more annoying in terms of music but i signed up for the review every BH album so here i am. This one is by far my favorite of 2021. Very interesting in how BH mixed the different instruments and the compositions themselves are of high quality. While not a bonafide masterpiece by any means, this is certainly one i will return to in the future. Thanks for laying this golden egg, Buck Buck!