I never paid that much attention to Clutch before I received a review copy of their new album From Beale Street to Oblivion. Sure, I had heard the name and probably have heard a few of the band's songs, but none memorable enough that I could recall them. In other words I didn't considered myself a fan - until now.

Clutch's new album From Beale Street to Oblivion is one of those rare albums, now more than ever, that is one-hundred percent enjoyable from start to finish. The opening track “You Can’t Stop Progress” is a powerhouse ode to new world order conventions and sets the pace for the rest of the album. The song is everything an opening track should be. It’s driving and catchy at the same time. The rest of the album is no less engaging and every time it seems they have settled into a style, they pull a complete left turn.

Clutch is well known for not fitting into a certain category. That’s not to say they don’t have their own sound. This time around it seems the band is leaning towards a rock-jazz fusion of sorts that is really noticeable on tracks like “Mr. Shiny Cadillackness” and one of the albums strongest cuts “Electric Worry.” Clutch projects a strong sense of confidence in their music coupled with superior musicianship throughout the albums twelve tracks.

Whatever ritual the boys in Clutch have to come up with for their unique songs, it is evident they are working it for full effect on From Beale Street to Oblivion This CD is, without a doubt, likely to be one of the best of the year.