Well known for his work in Alice In Chains, Jerry Cantrell made a considerable impact with his first solo album in the form of 1998's "Boggy Depot" and now, four years later he returns with "Degradation Trip". Essentially continuing on from where he last left off, this offering finds Cantrell taking the basics of his trademark song writing from Alice In Chains and injecting it with his own brand of personable lyrics to paint an often gloomy picture overtop of brooding riffs, thunderous drumming and methodical grunge reminiscent buildups.

With his unmistakable voice, Cantrell delivers a spiked melodic performance that materializes with many of the weapons from his Alice In Chains arsenal in place. From haunting hums and harmonies to angst laden croons and sorrow filled passages, his ability to honestly convey his emotion remains as impressive as ever and vividly displays why his work has had such a lasting influence on many of the bands who've sprouted up during the past decade. Guitar wise the effort is laced with assertive driving riffs that are perhaps a bit more rock and roll based when compared to the thick grunge growling of days past. Complimented by comforting acoustic strums, solos and a few effect coated embellishments, his playing seems a tad more humble these days, but still retains the listeners interest all the same through clever variations and flowing structures that constitute a finely calculated slow burn. Supported by warm and slightly detuned bass lines that work closely with the drums to stitch together a solid rhythm section, the guitar work is given full reign to guide the songs forth as competent lowend and crisp, skillful drumming cement a foundation.

It should be said that those hoping for another Alice In Chains record will not find it here. Sure many of the aforementioned bands characteristics are in place as Cantrell was one of their chief components but rather than the heavy snarls and density he toiled with back then, "Degradation Trip" finds him writing songs that are far more foreboding and guitar driven, almost leaving the listener to put the pieces together themselves to fully understand it. Indeed, this offering is an indulgent piece of work and really feels like a cleansing for Cantrell as a result of the near constant bitter/sweet lyrical content. Its also a more rock based affair, combining huge hooks with stormy musical compositions that are somewhat commercially oriented, yet still feel more authentic than those currently polluting mainstream radio. Unfortunately this is also a problem for the record as it can feel a bit thin, drawing from the same well far too often throughout the 14 tracks included. The lack of any risky dynamics also tends to keep the album moving at a medium tempo and with little intermission, it starts to drag on near the end. Still, though its moody and perhaps even a bit turgid at times, this offering is the perfect accompaniment to a rainy day and ultimately an album that caters more towards the darker side of the emotional spectrum, making it a solid listen, but one that might wear thin without the proper mindset in place.