Axl Rose disappoints with 'End of Days' highlight work

The centerpiece of the "End of Days" soundtrack, "Oh My God" is a departure from the straightforward kick-ass rock that made up the first decade of GNR's existence. "Oh my God" combines elements of many different musical genres, including hip-hop style scratching, techno effects, and feedback-heavy guitar riffs, which create an unstable song that changes pace seemingly at random. Instead of the guitar-driven tunes of yore, electronic noise and scratchy, distorted vocals dominate this new offer ing, which is by no means pleasing to the ear. Guns N' Roses' first new release in 6 years has a lot in common with Frankenstein's monster; it can perhaps be best described as musical experimentation gone horribly wrong.

Fortunately, there is more to the "End of Days" soundtrack than just Guns N' Roses. There are also a surprising number of previously unreleased tracks like Korn's "Camel Song", "Crushed" by Limp Bizkit, and "So Long" by Everlast. These new songs are mostly mediocre, with the surprising exception of Eminem's "Bad Influence." Although the track does not break any new ground, it is a solid donation from a largely unappreciated artist. Less impressive is Limp Bizkit's contribution, an uninspiring chant that borrows its refrain from Steve Miller's "Fly Like an Eagle."

Rounding out the compilation are prior tracks from Creed, Prodigy and Sonic Youth, as well as two promising young bands, Stroke and Professional Murder Music. Also present are offerings from both Rob Zombie and his younger brother's band, Powerman 5000. Most of these songs work well together, making for a fairly fluid album from start to finish. The one major disruption to the musical flow is, of course, "Oh My God," the wild irregularity of which has a disjointing effect on the album as a whole.

The "End of Days" soundtrack has the distinction of featuring original tracks from five of the biggest names in the current music scene. Although those rare tracks are largely average, the artists themselves have major drawing power, and could have made for an intriguing collection. The core of the album, however, is Axl Rose's latest work, and the song's musical failure pulls the compilation down in its flaming wake.

11-09-99