If you had a friend who smoked ‘The Devil’s Lettuce’ in the ’90s they probably listened to 311. This is not to say that the band only makes Stoner Rock, but their Rock/Reggae/Hip Hop fusion sound full of chill vibes and rhythmic beats definitely made them a favorite amongst ganja enthusiasts. Started in 1988, 311 is one of the longest-running bands in Rock music today. Their history of eclectic composition and experimentation has helped to distinguish them from their contemporaries over the years.
Consisting of Nick Hexum (vocals/rhythm guitar), Chad Sexton (drums), Tim Mahoney (lead guitar), Aaron “P-Nut” Wills (bass), and Doug “SA” Martinez (vocals/turntables), 311 released their fourteenth studio album Full Bloom via SKP (an independent distributor started by Hexum, and his wife, Niki) on October 25, 2024. The album is the band’s first since 2019’s Voyager, making the five-year release gap the largest in the band’s history. Will Full Bloom flower amongst the fandom or will it take root in the band’s discography as a weed?
Listeners are introduced to Full Bloom with “You’re Gonna Get It.” The very essence of this track is a bit foreboding and ominous, giving it an edgier feel and laying the groundwork for an interesting sonic journey. The trademark unique vocal stylings of Hexum stand out here in the best way. Also, this darker-toned introduction to the album started things off with an energy that feeds directly into the next track, “Need Somebody.” Here we have a song that is classic 311. The spirit of this song is akin to other 311 works, which should create comfort in familiarity for old-school 311 fans. The messaging here and throughout the album is one of connection and optimism which is a refreshing perspective for a modern Rock record given the state of the world. The title track “Full Bloom” unfolds like flora to explore the layers of sound and effects in its orchestration. It’s fun and breezy with an air of nostalgia that brings to mind previous hits like “All Mixed Up” with the chorus seeming to share similar chords with the 1996 chart-topper.
“Friend” is a bit more somber in its opening, but maintains a touch of optimism in its sobriety. It’s airy and open with a message that speaks to most of us in its call for a dependable friendship-something everyone can relate to and most people crave. Following this is the boppy “Mountain Top.” This track picks up the pace and chugs forward with a catchy beat and infectious energy that brings the listener along for the ride with ease which could be attributed to its attractive up-tempo. As you approach the middle of the album, nearing the end, you encounter “New Heights” with its near-ethereal feel and easy-going soul. “Days Go By” has an almost entrancing bass line that acts as the main heartbeat for the track. “Persimmon” feels like a daydream with dreamy swirls of sound and cymbals gently crashing in the background like rain. There’s something strange but beautiful about it.
“All You’ve Seen” is a lovely track that begins to bring the album to a close. It’s springy and almost refreshing in its essence. It’s an easy, laid-back near-exit to a similarly toned album. The journey thus far has been breezy and light-hearted, so it’s fitting that things would wind down the same way. It’s easy to envision this song as the soundtrack to a movie about wanderlust or a Summer road trip. Closing out Full Bloom is “Braver” with its grittier vibe. This track resembles some of its predecessors on previous albums like “Down.” Featuring harsher chord progressions, sharper snares, and heavier bass in the chorus, this song switches up the energy right at the end of the album.
One thing the band has perfected is bouncy rhythms with infectious beats. 311 makes songs you can vibe to and that quality is vastly underrated these days. With this album, the band is promoting a sense of unity and community. Their commitment to messaging and mission is commendable. This album may not reinvent the wheel but it mostly delivers what fans have come to expect from the band with a little extra chill in some places. Overall, for its vibes and heart Cryptic Rock gives Full Bloom 3.5 out of 5 stars.
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