Album review: Rob Zombie "Educated Horses"

It's easy to see why many of Rob Zombie's long-time fans would be a bit apprehensive about 2006's "Educated Horses." In the four-and-a-half years since his less than stellar "The Sinister Urge," he appeared to fancy himself as more of a movie-maker than a music-maker, but, luckily, this album is a rather inspired return to form.

"Horses" doesn't rely (too) heavily on the effects that have been a calling card of his two previous solo outings. It is more of a stripped-down, back-to-basics affair akin to Alice Cooper's 2005 offering "Dirty Diamonds." The only difference is that Cooper's album was a blatant attempt to recreate his "classic" '70s sound, whereas "Horses" sounds like a classic White Zombie with a pinch of spooky organs and Scott Humphrey's tired "Hellbilly Deluxe"-style production.  

It is hard to say why Rob decided to double back. Maybe he was reinvigorated by all the time away from making records, or maybe it was because Zombie has turned 40 since "Sinister" was released.  Perhaps it was the fact that every album he has made since White Zombie's major label debut, "La Sexorcisto," has been more formulaic than the one that preceded it. Whatever the reason, it's good to have him back.

 Standout tracks include, "Let It All Bleed Out," "American Witch," and, "17 Year Locust." 

 Overall: B+