The Velvet Revolver: Chapman Baehler
Velvet Revolver
'Contraband'Ex-Stone Temple Pilot Scott Weiland teams with most of Guns N' Roses for this big-muscled, arena-ready hard-rock album. Attempting modernity, Slash and friends (including former Guns bassist Duff McKagan and drummer Matt Sorum) avoid their old band's blues-rock, instead pursuing a leaner sound not unlike that of Weiland's STP. For his part, Weiland doesn't shy away from his personal problems -- the lyrics are saturated with references to substance abuse. (June 8)
