My Japanese copy got stuck at the German customs for a week (May 1 - and they made me pay 6,72 €.
Additionally I was on holidays on May 8, so the express delivery didn't really work for me and after returning from my holidays yesterday I gladly received my copy today
Hell, was I nervous to listen to the whole cd! I have to admit that the first two published tracks ("Sweet Tea", "Mignight Oil") didn't hit me straight away like expected. I liked the songs but they didn't blow me away and I was a bit worried about the whole cd. Thinking back it was myself standing in the way by having special expectations instead of listening open and nonbiased. BCC and Glenn solo was still too much on my mind, California Breed is definitely different!
And after listening to the cd the third time now I love it, love it, love it!
It's a masterpiece, I absolutely wanna see it live! I envy all the people who can see the band on May 28 or 31! And the bonus song ("Breathe" acoustic) plucked my heartstrings again (hankies out for that one). If you love a good dosis of Glenn's softer voice I can only recommend the Japanese release.
Meanwhile I absolutely love the mixture of good, hard, modern rock with some traditional elements and some ballads, I love the whole cd! Andrew's guitar playing is raw, fresh and creative. Jason's drumming is getting better and better and Glenn's energy and voice is just a miracle. I really hope they stay together as a band and tour a lot
My favs in the moment are "The Grey", "Chemical Rain" and - of course - "Breathe". But the cd is on instant replay, so my favs might change soon. Would love to read some more impressions of others