ARTIST: STAIND
ALBUM: CONFESSIONS OF THE FALLEN
RELEASE DATE: FRIDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER 2023
LABEL: BMG
REVIEWER: ROD STRACHAN
A shade over 11 years since the release of their self-titled album Rock Legends Staind return with eighth studio album “Confessions of The Fallen”. Frontman and vocalist Aaron Lewis lead’s the band into a new era following his four country roots releases in the preceding decade.
Lead off track and first single “Lowest in Me” released earlier this year is the perfect opening song. Catchy hooks and song crafting takes you back to a raw and energetic Staind from around the turn of the century! “Was Any of It Real” shows the in-depth ability of Aaron as a song writer. Running in at under 3 minutes it’s an instant Staind masterpiece!
“In This Condition” was released in the past month and continues the Staind freight train of classics! Mike Mushok’s torrid lead guitar work highlight this one mixed with Johny April’s brilliant bass playing! “Here & Now” raises the hair all over you with its pure innocence and seamless arrangements. Aaron’s heartfelt vocals touch emotions of all their classic ballads.
The palette continues to broaden with the sonically beautiful “Out Of Time”. The band continue to push the boundaries of their limits as the song says and they deliver! “Cycle Of Hurting” is a real return to roots track that would fit perfectly on 1999’s Dysfunction album in style and pose. Sal Giancarelli on drums delivers a stellar performance behind the kit on this furious hard rock hit!
“The Fray” again optimises the bands ability to deliver a different element to their music whilst staying ever close to their renowned sound. “Better Days” Showcases the bands ability to play the straight down the line thoughtful rock hits as well. Clean and appealing are good terms to describe this one!
“Hate Me Too” returns the record to its hard-edged rock genesis formula. The title track “Confessions of The Fallen” closes off the 10-track album with a blistering formula that attracts both new and old ears.
The wait has been worth it as Staind deliver the best possible album they can in 2023 – which has platinum written all over it! Thank you, guys, for delivering a high quality release and let’s hope it’s not 11 years before the next one!
TRACKLISTING
LOWEST IN ME
WAS ANY OF IT REAL?
IN THIS CONDITION
HERE AND NOW
OUT OF TIME
CYCLE OF HURTING
FRAY
BETTER DAYS
HATE ME TOO
CONFESSIONS OF THE FALLEN
FULL OF EMPTINESS
TAKE
