Review Summary: Trapt's third studio album is a very good effort showcasing the band's musical strengths while also addressing the complaints of fans and casual listeners who did not enjoy their previous work.
For this record, Trapt replaces former guitarist Simon Ormandy with Rob Torres; a more than fit (and hopefully) permanent musician with a great ear for rhythm and melody. Every song drips with charm borne of his pallet of spreading riffs and small touches to the record's colorful and upbeat vibe. Pete Charell's bass, while an afterthought, is felt and adds atmosphere to the oceanic vibe of the songs. Monty's drums are heavy and well produced - as is everything else on the record; kudos to Garth Richardson who must of loved the experience of watching these songs come together. Chris Taylor Brown's lyrics are passable with a few bursts of philosophical edge here and there. Overall, the experience is pleasant.
"Only Through the Pain" is Trapt performing at their best with well produced music that you enjoy picking apart during multiple listens - thanks, in part, to Torres. 'Who's Going Home With You Tonight,' the somewhat irritatingly long-titled single, is a breath of fresh air for fans that didn't enjoy "Someone in Control's" darker approach to song structure and lyrics. 'Contagious'combines wet arpeggio chord progressions during verses with loud harmonizing full gain guitars during choruses - a pattern that repeats throughout the rest of the album. Brown shines in 'Only One Color;' quite possibly the band's only happy song to date. The lyrics of this song stand out with their feel-good vibe. 'Black Rose' masters the record's somewhat repetitive formula with a chorus that hits an emotional button - coupled with lyrics that tell a story you can only articulate to yourself. Every song is autonomous and full of intrigue making for a fun experience to the listener.
A very good effort by the band.
