Review Summary: So I've been a fan of The Script from the first time I heard Breakeven, and I have to say, #3 has not changed that one bit. Allow me to explain why I think this album is genius, and at the same time, grounded and something we can all relate to.
The Script has always been exceptional at giving listeners something they can really connect with, something that is so true to life that you can't help but give into the music and let it sweep over you. #3 is no different. There is a sense of purpose in this album that is very rare to see in music these days, and this album also has a very uplifting feel to it, not unlike previous albums. From the drums, to the guitar work, and of course, the vocal performance of O'Donoghue. Yes, the vocals may not seem as important to this album, and the band has definitely changed their style, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. I've always liked to see bands go in a new direction, and for The Script, it works.
After the first listen, I thought to myself, "Is this really The Script?" I'll be honest, my first listen was difficult and I felt that it was actually mediocre. But after the second play through, I became completely entranced by the sheer raw emotion of #3. Don't give up on it, because it is incredibly addictive. O'Donoghue makes his anguish and emotion present in every track, and there is no shortage of it, believe me. With songs like, "If You Could See Me Now," and "Six Degrees of Seperation," how could you not feel something? Why? Because it's something that all of us have or will go through in life, and that's what makes this album so real.
The instrumentation in #3 is superb. Especially the drumming, which feels forced, but also very natural. It gives the music a sense of purpose, and sometimes, pain. The guitar work is something to be noticed. In the song "Kaleidoscope," the intro guitar and the "ooohs" (pardon such a generic term) made me feel like I was floating in an atmosphere of longing and purpose. Overall, it's a solid effort.
Now, don't get me wrong, this album is not perfect. But then again, it's almost impossible to create an album with absolutely no flaws. A couple of songs on #3 sound almost generic, with little to no emotional appeal. Songs that seem to fall short of good are "Give the Love Around," and "Glowing." Don't get me wrong, these songs are not awful, and it's The Script to the core, but they just don't feel as powerful as the rest of the album. Also, I would have liked to hear more of O'Donoghue's vocals because there is no denying, he is a wonderful vocalist.
All in all, give #3 a listen. Get swept away by the emotion, and give into the atmosphere of this album. You won't be disappointed.
