His loyal followers waited patiently as Adam took an extended break from the music biz and conquered and overcame some personal issues during his hiatus. Thus, expectations and anticipation have run high for Adam Ant’s first new album in 18 years, and on the heels of a successful worldwide tour, he finally released his long-awaited comeback album, Adam Ant Is the Blueblack Hussar in Marrying the Gunner's Daughter.
The album — which clocks in at 70-plus minutes and consists of 17 tracks — is a mixed bag. Upon first listen, it's apparent Blueblack Hussar would have fared better as a leaner, meaner, 40-minute release. There are plenty of quality selections here; “Vince Taylor” recalls the days of the early, rawer Adam and the Ants material, and the rockin' “Marrying the Gunner’s Daughter” features some blistering guitar work. But the album seems to lose focus as it progresses. Too many similarly-paced songs around the mid-point plod along without much feeling or direction, and weigh the album's mood down a bit too much. Adam’s vocals are in fine form throughout and there’s plenty of welcomed experimentation and flirtations with electronic devices, so in regards to ambition and creativity, Blueblack Hussar is a success. And it picks up steam and momentum as it draws to a close with standout numbers “How Can I Say I Miss You?” and “Bulls**t,” which help to restore faith in Blueblack Hussar and make Ant’s return an overall welcome affair.
3 out of 5 Stars
