Review Summary: Trapt can still write good catchy songs.
Trapt's "Someone in Control" is more radio-friendly than their debut - but it's a better record with more tight musicianship and writing. The album is not without a few weak songs, but what is good on this album is better than the best of the genre (which is something I frequently say about the band).
"Lost Realist" is a masterpiece, essentially. The song changes from soft acoustic guitars during verses to a powerful chorus. Disconnected" and "Stand Up" are straight-forward fight songs that sound brilliant as a result of the band's use of sound palettes that give an illusion of layers - without feeling overproduced. Deeper songs: "Waiting," "Influence" and "Product of My Own Design" are perfectly acceptable Greatest Hits contenders that carry the same heavy hitting sound of "Still Frame" and "These Walls." "Repeat Offender" is a strong song as well. The whole album is very well produced and orchestrated for these types of Monday Night Football anthems.
The album's weaker tunes are more forgivable as a section of the record does sound oddly similar to the album's lead single "Stand Up." Songs like "Skin Deep" and "Victim" sound a bit like rehashes of better songs on the album. They don't completely suck, they're just speed-bumps. Fortunately, the album ends with a bang with three well paced, highly energetic songs that you'll want to turn up and replay in your car for years to come.
Truthfully, Trapt is criminally underrated. I've always been a fan of Trapt, but I sadly understand where all of the criticism comes from....
...and for that, I can assure casual listeners a fun time with their ear buds, but make no mistake - if you don't like Trapt by now, you probably won't like this album either. Aside from "Lost Realist," the record only follows the traditions of its predecessor with just a little more 'ooomph.'
