A.A. Bondy’s penchant for creating melodious tomes belies his aggressive origins as point man in the hardcore Southern grunge outfit Verbena. While the group racked up numerous Nirvana comparisons – and even enticed Dave Grohl to produce their major label debut – it was fortuitous that the band eventually opted to go their separate ways. That allowed Bondy time and motivation to regroup and, in fact, refocus his direction. His first solo outing, American Hearts, turned some heads, but When the Devil’s Loose will likely be the one to draw the most attention, thanks to a cache of hollow-eyed balladry, supple melodies and a sublime sense of songcraft. The album gets off to a slow start – mellow, laconic, sad and subdued — but as it progresses, the pace picks up, and with it, the hooks become better defined. “On the Moon” betrays a hint of antebellum ambiance, almost as if it came from the pen of Stephen Foster. “I Can See the Pines Are Dancing” and “The Mercy Wheel” are quietly compelling, an underlying determination punctuating the restive posture. Admittedly, When the Devil’s Loose takes further listens to fully appreciate its subtlety and nuance, but any time invested ultimately becomes time well spent. (Fat Possum 2009)
