Review THE TEMPERANCE MOVEMENT “New Promise Land Incorporated”

The Temperance Movement is the brainchild of vocalist Phil Campbell, who formed the band in 2011 and ultimately brought the story to a close in 2020 when he left the group. His departure effectively meant the end of The Temperance Movement. There were still a live release and a collection of rarities to follow, but the band itself was put on ice for the time being. Considering they had already released three studio albums and shared stages with acts such as The Rolling Stones, that sudden stop was unexpected. At the same time, it says something about the determination with which Campbell and the band have always approached their music.

Now the hiatus is over, and The Temperance Movement are back with a new album. New Promise Land Incorporated is the title, and its ten tracks make one thing clear: the band hasn’t lost its sense of direction. That gritty blend of rock and blues is still firmly in place, complete with a retro edge that hits you right between the ears.

The opener “Shadows” immediately reminds us that Phil Campbell’s rough, smoky voice remains one of the driving forces behind the band. If The Rolling Stones and AC/DC somehow had an illegitimate musical offspring, The Temperance Movement might well be it.

A touch of Southern rock comes into play on “Eat You Alive,” before “Silverlight Blues” brings a more melancholic mood into the picture. The same goes for “Scars,” which takes its time to let the atmosphere settle. Then comes “Love Kicks” with a roaring start that wastes no time getting down to business. There are no compromises here. In just two minutes, The Temperance Movement show what rock music is supposed to do. This one is an instant energy boost, the kind of song that flips the switch and gets you moving.

That even the toughest guys have a softer side becomes apparent on “Mongrels,” while “Hometown Kings & Queens”picks up that sentimental mood and carries it forward. Groove is the driving force behind “Always Been Love,” and little by little, we move toward the final stretch.

With “Saving Grace” and “Let It All Out,” the album closes with two tracks that underline just how much ground The Temperance Movement can cover without losing their identity. Different moods, different approaches, same unmistakable attitude.

New Promise Land Incorporated makes an impression through Phil Campbell’s gritty vocals alone, but there is more to it than that. The band takes a retro-inspired sound and brings it into the present without making it feel like a museum piece. This is a solid rock record that sounds genuine, wears its emotions openly, and covers plenty of ground without getting trapped in the usual clichés.

Honest, emotional rock music — the kind that simply feels good to hear.