Black Gives Way To Blue
by Alice in Chains
  • Record Label: Virgin
  • Release Date: Sep 29, 2009
User Score
8.7

Universal acclaim- based on 149 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 142 out of 149
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 149
  3. Negative: 1 out of 149

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  1. thomasbt
    Feb 19, 2023
    9
    Balanced, heavy and melancholic album. The years pass and I keep on coming back to it.
  2. Danm95VFF
    Mar 26, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's always going to be a big challenge to replace a classic band member that was loved by the fans, and even more so to carry on releasing good quality albums and maintaining a level of success. However, Alice in Chains have succeeded in carrying on without fallen bandmate Layne Staley, reforming a few years after his tragic death and hiring vocalist/guitarist William DuVall to take his place in the band. Sure, it's easy to say that you can never really replace someone like Layne Staley, or that "there's no Alice In Chains without Layne" but this album does nothing but great justice to the legacy of Alice in Chains. Nowhere will you find anything even potentially embarrassing, or anything that might tarnish their good name. This is a comeback that has been done properly.

    Now, of course, aside from DuVall, the lineup consists of mainstays guitarist Jerry Cantrell and drummer Sean Kinney, as well as bassist Mike Inez, who joined during the band's original run, replacing original bassist Mike Starr (who, like Layne, is no longer with us today). DuVall fits into his role in the group seamlessly. Most of his vocals are shared with Cantrell, which is no problem at all. Cantrell has always had a strong voice which was becoming a more significant part of the band's sound even when Layne will still there, and also shone through in his solo work. The dual vocal style of the band adds more power and energy to the music overall.

    This album maintains pretty much all of the trademark elements of the band's sound, including their dark, moody guitar riffs and their metal sensibility. They sound just as confident as they always have, and have no problem finding their feet even after their many years of dormancy (this is the band's first studio album in 14 years) some of the songs, especially "All Secrets Known", "Last of my Kind" and perhaps also "Acid Bubble" remind me of the albums Dirt and their self titled, and wouldn't sound too out of place on either of those albums. I don't mean that in a bad way. They haven't ripped off those albums, but they sure still have the ability to write the same strong kind of stuff. "All Secrets Known" for example, is slow moving but heavy, and carries a deterministic feel, which makes for a great album opener. "Acid Bubble" is also slow, with a sinister feel and some slightly faster, heavier parts throughout.

    Alice in Chains have never been a "happy" band, but there's one fairly upbeat song on here named "Check My Brain" which is also one of my favourite songs on the album. The guitars are crunchy and dominating, and the vocals and drums are strong enough to accompany them amidst the loudness. On the other end of the spectrum, there are plenty of melancholy, soft moments to be found on the album. While we are provided with many trademark dark songs, the more melancholy parts are a welcome change of pace, and it is because they are done so beautifully that they enhance the listening experience. "Your Decision" is a sad and eerie mid-tempo song, with orchestral elements and passionately sung vocals. "Private Hell" is a slower moving song, again with orchestral elements, that takes you on a 5 and a half minute journey of loneliness and despair, sending shivers down your spine.

    The title track, which closes the album, provides a suitable final farewell to Layne. Drums are absent, and It features a guest appearance from Elton John on the piano, and creates a haunting atmosphere that sounds ghostly, almost like our lost loved ones are looking down on us from the afterlife. It's difficult for me to express how it makes the listener feel in this review. All I can say is please listen to this song, at least. It's one of the most moving pieces of music you will ever hear.

    This album has a lot of standard Alice in Chains fare, but also plenty of surprises thrown in the mix to keep the listener interested, such as percussion and orchestral parts, and songs that sound unlike anything the band has done before. And it should not be forgotten that the material is consistently strong and does the Alice in Chains name justice. It doesn't sound like a typical grunge album, or a typical metal album. It sounds like Alice in Chains being themselves, full of confidence and energy to make a powerful and satisfying comeback album that you can't afford not to have in your collection.

    Originally posted on Encyclopedia Metallum    … Expand
  3. skyminster
    Jan 6, 2016
    8
    Black Gives Way to Blue is powerful, it uses its prominent bass to fantastic effect, every song has its qualities and it is an album that I regard highly. Some songs are absolutely fantastic, with All Secrets Known being probably the second best Alice in Chains songs I’ve heard; but there are a few songs that don’t keep up that fantastic quality, and there is a distinct lack of riffs. ButBlack Gives Way to Blue is powerful, it uses its prominent bass to fantastic effect, every song has its qualities and it is an album that I regard highly. Some songs are absolutely fantastic, with All Secrets Known being probably the second best Alice in Chains songs I’ve heard; but there are a few songs that don’t keep up that fantastic quality, and there is a distinct lack of riffs. But the awesome songs along with everything else that’s good about the record – from William Duval to its unique sound – makes it a great album. But maybe not quite as good as The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here.

    82/100.    … Expand
  4. 3raz3r
    Sep 12, 2013
    10
    A terrific comeback album by the best grunge band of the 90s, Black Gives Way To Blue is heavier and has greater sludge influences than the earlier albums, but that just adds to the allure. It is the perfect mix of heavy tracks such as "Check My Brain" and "A Looking In View", and mellow ones such as "Your Decision" and "When The Sun Rose Again". The title track is a heart-warming tributeA terrific comeback album by the best grunge band of the 90s, Black Gives Way To Blue is heavier and has greater sludge influences than the earlier albums, but that just adds to the allure. It is the perfect mix of heavy tracks such as "Check My Brain" and "A Looking In View", and mellow ones such as "Your Decision" and "When The Sun Rose Again". The title track is a heart-warming tribute to Layne Staley, who will remain in our hearts forever. Will DuVall is a fitting replacement and ensures that there is no decline in quality as far as the music is concerned. All in all, an amazing return. Grunge is back.… Expand
  5. criticsbedumb
    Mar 26, 2013
    10
    Other than the replacement of the junkie Layne Staley with William Duval (whose vocals are almost always overshadowed by Jerry Cantrell), this is classic AIC. No complaints here.
  6. Trojans05
    Jun 21, 2012
    10
    Great album, great band. Enough said.
  7. agunZagun
    Jan 3, 2012
    10
    You can't judge the Jerry. He wanna make some music and sell some records. He used the "Alice in Chains" name for selling records. OK, I know, it's not Alice in Chains anymore, but that doesn't mean this album is sh*t. It's a very good album, out of my expectations..
  8. Gabera-EPM74
    Dec 8, 2011
    10
    Surprisingly for some, this is probably the best AIC album. Every track has that special touch which makes every bridge or chorus irresistible, even for the non-fan, and positively not turning it into a cheap work in exchange. Jerry Cantrell shows again - and better than ever - why he's the most gifted songwriter and guitar hero from that rainy, unbelievable hometown. William DuVall is aSurprisingly for some, this is probably the best AIC album. Every track has that special touch which makes every bridge or chorus irresistible, even for the non-fan, and positively not turning it into a cheap work in exchange. Jerry Cantrell shows again - and better than ever - why he's the most gifted songwriter and guitar hero from that rainy, unbelievable hometown. William DuVall is a blessing from the heavens and his strong presence in each required situation grants him nothing but admiration. There's no such "roller coaster" feeling as you travel through the record, what I believe was some kind of "regular irregularity" present in the previous releases.… Expand
  9. gruenjr
    May 23, 2011
    9
    A great album for someone waiting for grunge to come back (Pearl Jam reissues don't count). William Duvall is a worthy addition to the band. "Check My Brain," "Your Decision," and "Black Gives Way to Blue" are all highlights.
  10. eliteco3
    Jan 16, 2011
    9
    Incredible return by one of the kings of grunge music. The 14 year layoff was worth the wait with this original bone jarring album that will hit you right in the gut. The late rock legend Layne staley is replaced with William Duvall who brings his own edge to the band. Cantrell is back with his intense sincere solos and rhythm guitar. Cantrell sings as much in this album as any Alice inIncredible return by one of the kings of grunge music. The 14 year layoff was worth the wait with this original bone jarring album that will hit you right in the gut. The late rock legend Layne staley is replaced with William Duvall who brings his own edge to the band. Cantrell is back with his intense sincere solos and rhythm guitar. Cantrell sings as much in this album as any Alice in Chains album as Duvall is eased into the role of the new lead singer for fans. Highlights include private hell, acid bubble, and a looking in view. The feel of the band has evolved from the heroin addiction they faced in the 90's to a more developed controlled sound that unleashes its fiery on you like a tornado.… Expand
  11. FDT44
    Jan 5, 2011
    7
    The revival of one of the greatest bands of the grunge era returns with more ringing harmonies and guitar solos this time with new headman William Duvall. Although without the limitless and ultra-talented late-Layne Staley, the band continues to make great music with hits such as "Your Decision," "Lesson Learned," "Private Hell," "Acid Bubble," and many more. Guitar and vocalist JerryThe revival of one of the greatest bands of the grunge era returns with more ringing harmonies and guitar solos this time with new headman William Duvall. Although without the limitless and ultra-talented late-Layne Staley, the band continues to make great music with hits such as "Your Decision," "Lesson Learned," "Private Hell," "Acid Bubble," and many more. Guitar and vocalist Jerry Cantrell, as well as Sean Kinney and Mike Inez also return to continue the legacy and continuation of grunge in modern music.… Expand
  12. SodaPopDumb
    Dec 1, 2010
    8
    Alice In Chains. One of the greatest bands i know.

    With the death of Layne Staley, the band haven't done a album in years.

    I personally think this was a definitely this was a great comeback album and show they still got their talented Jerry Cantrell as song writer and I think this album is great with their new singer William Duvall.

    Rip Layne
  13. MikeK
    Sep 4, 2010
    5
    I LOVE Alice in Chains, but this is a pretty mediocre record. It's not just the absence of Layne's great voice. It's that the album feels incoherent. Some songs are the gloomy sludge metal dirges Alice are famous for, others are the softer ballads present on their between album EP's. Jerry's songwriting chops also aren't as sharp as they used to be.
  14. AndrewR.
    Jan 21, 2010
    9
    Once again the critics show themselves to be fools with no taste. This is a brilliant album that rivals anything with Layne. A little bit more mellow than their older work, but this isn't surprising since they're all into middle age. A must-buy.
  15. SrikanthC
    Jan 11, 2010
    9
    Great album! Typical AIC stuff. I like that very much.
  16. SamP.
    Dec 20, 2009
    6
    Heavy, grimy, depressing, and thundering, guaranteed to make the listener reconsider suicide. Alice In Chains does it well but the impact is marred by a lack of energy, complimented by stale vocal performances, which makes the album a chore to listen to instead of an enjoyment. Not recommended for first-time AIC listeners.
  17. IanC
    Dec 11, 2009
    9
    Love it love it. We saw Alice in Chains play in Paris last week and what really hit home was how well these new tracks mix with the old, keeping the style we know and love with some serious groove and soul brought by the FABULOUS new front man, and kudos to him for having the courage to step into such massive shoes. Alice in Chains were always all music and zero grunge attitude, just a Love it love it. We saw Alice in Chains play in Paris last week and what really hit home was how well these new tracks mix with the old, keeping the style we know and love with some serious groove and soul brought by the FABULOUS new front man, and kudos to him for having the courage to step into such massive shoes. Alice in Chains were always all music and zero grunge attitude, just a bunch of guys who love what they do and this CD oozes that quality.… Expand
  18. JavierS.
    Dec 6, 2009
    8
    One of the best albums of 2009 hands down!
  19. EwoutC
    Dec 1, 2009
    8
    Very good recording, great comeback. There is not one song that is weak, they are all of a high standard.
  20. ChrisF
    Nov 26, 2009
    9
    More dragging than most have hanging.
  21. JamesS
    Nov 20, 2009
    10
    Amazing
  22. ArtieS
    Nov 18, 2009
    9
    Wow, critics slam band. Reminds me of Stone Temple Pilots in their early days. Solid album from fans perspective.A couple weak filler songs but definitely a recommend.
  23. Peter
    Nov 15, 2009
    9
    I'm actually really, really surprised at how good this disc is. The first song is an instant AIC classic, great riffs, great vocals. This Duval guy has a perfect voice for AIC, very close to Layne's. I recommend this disc highly!
  24. Bruce
    Nov 6, 2009
    10
    This album exceeds Jar of Flies. The vocals sound like Layne Staley, the songs have melody and punch and the guitars are thicker than ever. I'm on my 50th listen in the past two weeks. This record has just overtaken Oasis' Dig Out Your Soul as my top pick of the year.
  25. CrisD
    Nov 4, 2009
    8
    I love AiC. I like them the best in Facelift. This album was amazing but to me had some things left to be desired. It sounds a lot like Jerry's solo albums. I feel like Sean should've stuck out more. All that aside, DuVall did not disappoint and sounds a lot like Layne but should have had less support from Jerry to really make it the AIC sound I enjoyed so much in Facelift.
  26. ChrisL
    Oct 22, 2009
    5
    This record needs a bit more meat, because too much of it is filler and too much of it consists of these droney, whinny songs. Past albums were always dark but had this quirky life and energy to them. Songs like "Private Hell" "Take Her Out" and "Acid Bubble", just sludge on and go nowhere fast. And I would have loved this record so much more if you could actually, you know, HEAR Duvall This record needs a bit more meat, because too much of it is filler and too much of it consists of these droney, whinny songs. Past albums were always dark but had this quirky life and energy to them. Songs like "Private Hell" "Take Her Out" and "Acid Bubble", just sludge on and go nowhere fast. And I would have loved this record so much more if you could actually, you know, HEAR Duvall on more then 30% of it. Even on Acid Bubble, which Duvall carries VERY well live, Cantrell has to have the prominent voice. What a prick. Cantrell, you had your solo trips, now truely harmonize like AIC used to do so well and make AIC a bit more distinct from your solo stuff. Do you know what this record sounding mostly like Degredation Trip #3 is? A hack job so you can actually sell some records. Well, it appears to be working.… Expand
  27. AdamH
    Oct 21, 2009
    10
    This album is further evidence that these elitist critics have become so insulated by their criteria for "good music" and desire to fetch readers for their bosses from the mass pool of "big money" age demographics, that they've completely lost touch with reality.
  28. barryg
    Oct 20, 2009
    9
    Well it's for the better than the worst the lead singer the perfect replacement for layne, music wise it takes 3 to 4 spins in your cd player to get the feel for it . it grows on you the more you listen to it.
  29. KeatonR
    Oct 14, 2009
    10
    Best album to be released in a very very very long time, I cannot stop listening to it, even if I try to, every single song on this album is beautiful and bursting with talent, a hard thing to come by today, this album can only be described in one word. Masterpiece.
  30. JoeyB
    Oct 11, 2009
    9
    An amazing and stunning album that requires time to reveal itself to the listener, and a few more listens will no doubt make you appreciate it more.
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Awards & Rankings

15
#15 Most Discussed Album of 2009
94
#94 Most Shared Album of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Boston Globe
    70
    While there are a few lulls, none are glaringly offensive, and the band builds up so much good will with the stronger material that it’s easy to surrender again to these Chains.
    Read full review
  2. Hot Press
    50
    There’s still something oddly admirable about Alice In Chains’ stubborn refusal to change.
    Read full review
  3. Rolling Stone
    50
    What Black lacks are great tunes and a sense of can't-look-away drama.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »