Mick Mars, The Other Side of Mars Review

With his solo debut, The Other Side of Mars, Mick Mars ventures into uncharted territories that reflect his storied past and indicate a future ripe with musical innovation. Released on February 23, 2024, this album is a canvas showcasing his multifaceted artistry, deeply rooted in hard rock and grunge yet blossoming into new tonalities and riffs.

At the core of The Other Side of Mars lies Mars’ unparalleled sense of guitar tone and his adeptness in weaving evocative narratives through his songwriting. The album is a tour de force of Mars’ ability to balance the raw, gritty essence of hard rock with the nuanced storytelling of grunge, all while infusing each track with a unique sonic identity. This is evident in tracks like “Loyal to the Lie” and “Broken on the Inside,” where Mars’ guitar work is not just a backdrop but a driving force that propels the narrative forward, complemented by Jacob Bunton’s expressive vocals.

Mars’ songwriting shines throughout the album, particularly in how he crafts profoundly personal yet universally relatable songs. For example, the lyrics of “Killing Breed” delve into themes of isolation and existential despair, set against a backdrop of heavy, moody instrumentation that amplifies the song’s emotional weight. Mars’ ability to convey complex emotions through his music is a testament to his songwriting prowess, offering listeners a window into his soul.

The singing on the album, primarily handled by Bunton, with contributions from Brion Gamboa on tracks like “Undone” and “Killing Breed,” adds another layer of depth to the album. Bunton’s dynamic range, from the energetic delivery of “Loyal to the Lie” to the emotive nuances of “Alone,” complements Mars’ guitar work and songwriting, creating a cohesive auditory experience. Gamboa’s unique vocal timbre, particularly on “Killing Breed,” provides a striking contrast that highlights the diversity of Mars’ musical influences and his willingness to explore different sounds and emotions within the album.

Mars’ sense of guitar tone is particularly noteworthy. Throughout the album, his guitar serves as a voice in its own right, conveying emotions and stories with each note. The dark, rich tones on “Loyal to the Lie” reflect Mars’ mastery of his instrument, crafting sounds as impactful as they are intricate. “LA Noir,” an instrumental track, showcases Mars’ blues influences and his ability to evoke a sense of place and mood through his guitar playing alone.

In The Other Side of Mars, Mick Mars has crafted an album showing his enduring talent and creativity. It’s a work that respects the foundations of hard rock and grunge while daring to explore new musical landscapes. Mars’ songwriting, coupled with his distinctive guitar playing and tone, creates an album that is felt, inviting listeners into the depths of his musical journey. With this solo debut, Mars reaffirms his status as a guitarist and songwriter, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career.