(Roadrunner Records)
Typically, opening for popular acts such as Kid Rock and Sevendust results in a spot on TRL shortly after. Despite this achievement, doubleDrive has not had the bittersweet chance to see the face of Carson Daly and hear the disturbing screams of the high school girls who adore him.
DoubleDrive's roots go all the way back to the teenage years of guitarist Troy McLawhorn and frontman Donnie Hamby. The duo continued jamming together until they joined bassist Joshua Sattler and drummer Mike Froedge in 1996. The band grew together on stage and doubleDrive eventually created its first album, 1,000 Yard Stare.
After the promising shows in 1999 and 2000, the band and its label, MCA Records, broke ties after the two had a dispute, and doubleDrive appeared to be back at square one. DoubleDrive, however, had been fortunate enough to turn some heads in the music business.
The band regrouped quickly and began recording new material with big name producers such as John Philip Kurzweg (Creed, Puddle of Mudd) and Michael Barbiero (Guns N' Roses). In no time at all they had produced enough music to hopefully turn some heads for a second time, and Roadrunner Records was willing to carry Blue in the Face on their label.
Guitarist Troy McLawhorn explained that the band decided on the album title Blue in the Face because \We've been holding our breath so long waiting for this to happen."" The album's lyrics reflect this frustration of not being able to fully release their music to the people, which stems back to the incident with MCA.
""Evenout"" and ""The Hand"" exemplify doubleDrive's contempt for their former record company. The songs criticize the label's refusal to support the band after its ""banner year."" Hamby sings, with reference to MCA, ""What do I get from the hand with an empty platter exactly?""
There are times, however, when Hamby and the other three musicians give up the fight and allow their skill and emotion to gently flow through on the album. Keeping true to the metal tradition, ""Million People"" is a slow love ballad with acoustic guitars and sweet, toned-down vocals. The band even elected to conclude the album with an acoustic track. Hamby explained they did so just for the vibe of it.
DoubleDrive has held its head high and has been given a second chance at fame. Only time will tell if Roadrunner Records will be more faithful than MCA by showing doubleDrive the respect they have so rightfully earned.
