Rob Zombie- Hellbilly Deluxe 2

Artist: Rob Zombie

CD Title: -Hellbilly Deluxe 2

Label: Roadrunner Records

Reviewer: Robert Eaton

Date: 5-31-10

Album - Hellbilly Deluxe 2: Nobel Jackals, Penny Dreadfuls, and the Systematic Dehumanization of Cool

For those fans of Rob Zombie’s early career, waiting for a return to form of the classic White Zombie albums of the 1990’s has been tough. However, Zombie is an eclectic artist who has made his mark musically, in movies, and television. It would be unfortunate to overlook this album. Like most of his solo output this album owes much more to the anthemic rock category as opposed to White Zombie’s metal. This may be Zombie’s strongest album in years. Part of the album’s strength is this is the first of Zombie’s solo albums to incorporate a solidified lineup of the band members Zombie takes on tour: including John 5 (ex- Marilyn Manson), Piggy D., Tommy Clufetos. The stable lineup makes for a much more cohesive album than some previous efforts. The album opens with the hard-rock anthem, “Jesus Frankenstein”. The track is pretty representative of what the listener will find throughout the album with a big chorus and a chugging guitar. “Sick Bubblegum” seems tailor-made stripper music. It’s catchy, sleazy, and good fun. “Werewolf, Baby!” is heavily influenced by classic rock, with a big chorus and slide guitar. “Virgin Witch” culls from more progressive metal sources, allowing John 5 pretty free range in an extended solo section. “Burn” (which was released as a single and a free download) falls along similar lines. “Cease to Exist” is dirgy, slow and sludgy, with a intricate midsection. “The Man Who Laughs” is a nine-minute opus, and a real treat, and includes and extended drum solo. While Hellbilly Deluxe 2 is not on the level of Zombie’s pre-solo work, it’s still a damn good album. Calling the CD format dead, “Hellbilly Deluxe 2” may be the last release by Zombie in CD format. There’s some throwaway tracks, but fans old and new will find a lot to like. Also, aside the album, remixes and bonus tracks are available via the iTunes store.