Incubus - Light Grenades

Incubus return with their 6th full length album 'Light Grenades' and as is the case with their past releases, no-one was quite sure what to expect. This is the beauty with ever-evolving bands, especially since their past records have been so diverse musically, from funk, progressive rock, pop, surf rock, psychedelic rock and metal. If you hated A Crow Left of the Murder because it didn't feel like Incubus, this latest release will probably appeal to you more. On the other hand, if you preferred their earlier stuff, like S.C.I.E.N.C.E and Fungus Amongus you might feel this is not exactly up to that standard - in other words, good but not great. And if we wanted to venture further down comparison lane, it probably is a blend of all their past material, including the popular Morning View and Make Yourself. The title track 'Light Grenades' is most likely the song that from-the-womb Incubus fans will enjoy the most. The album opens up with 'Quicksand' an intro-track that takes me back to some of their earlier material from their 1998 release S.C.I.E.N.C.E, fading out and in to the next track 'A Kiss to Send us Off' which in turn is reminiscent of ACLOTM.

'Dig' can be classed as the most trademark mainstream Incubus melody on this album. Packed with self-aware lyrics and wrapped with Brandon's characteristic vocals, this has been a very aptly chosen 2nd single - somewhat Morning View-esque. First single 'Anna Molly' follows. Listen closely, as this is really sung Anomaly, and if you pay attention to the lyrics and watch the video you will understand why. A clichéd title like 'Love Hurts' suggests this will be the most predictable and 'pretty' of the album, yet they pull it off, simply because they can, especially when the raw and old-school 'Light Grenades' is next. 'Earth to Bella (Part 1)' has given rise to much debate amongst the die-hard Incubus fans, some claiming it to be a mere 'filler' and 'Earth to Bella (Part II)' (the album's closing number), doesn't do the album any justice either. It feels somewhat out of place. 'Oil and Water' doesn't exactly stand out although it does work lyrically. Brandon has a knack of expressing himself simply yet honestly. The catchy and memorable 'Diamonds and Coal' that follows will most likely be one of your favourites on first listen - with a catchy 80's rock feel. 'Rogues' could be the one track that showcases the individual talents of the band members, and 'Paper Shoes' has to be one of my recommended listens. It bears a slight Radiohead influence. One other recommended track is 'Pendulous Threads', probably the best example on this album of Incubus at their best.

To sum it all up, allow this album to grow on you. I wouldn't say it's their best so far, but it's worth buying and listening to, again and again. Don't miss the amazing artwork on the album sleeve.

RRR

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