Theory Of A Deadman: Theory Of A Deadman : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

This Vancouver quartet's debut was co-produced by Nickelback's Chad Kroeger, co-written in part by Kroeger and released by Kroeger's new imprint. Would you believe it sounds a little like Chad Kroeger? Those familiar with Nickelback's inescapable hit "How You Remind Me," know what to expect: herniated vocals, engorged guitars that sound like gravel shifting in burlap, shout-along choruses and lyrics about bad love gone worse.

The ways in which Theory of a Deadman differs from its benefactor's unit: Well, the group has a more bluesy swagger, along with mustachioed belter Tyler Connolly, who proudly assumes the role of callous bastard. In "Nothing Could Come Between Us," he hangs with his lady, simply because he "likes her better than the other ones," and she tells him he's right when she knows he's wrong. So -- at least he's honest?

ROBERT CHERRY
(RS 906 - October 3, 2002)