Great sounds, if you like generic American Rock
I can remember being introduced to Staind. It was by a couple of sisters who were, shall we say, uber-metal. Staind had that sort of reputation at one point when they first hit. But shortly afterward, "Chapter V" ruined all that with what can only be described, as Bill Bailey once put it, American, whining, self-pity. Sure, they went with some real feelings and hit the emo nail on the head but unlike bands like NIN or artists like Tori Amos, they did it in a boring, rock vein and didn't plumb the depths enough. So I eagerly awaited the new release in the hopes that Staind had not let me down.
One can't argue with Staind's success with their first 3 albums selling very well, which makes me wonder why these guys sound so depressing half the time. Again, this is a slick production and has a very vintage, smooth flair and I think Staind can be happy that they have been consistent but I do have one question.
When did Staind turn into Seether?
It's the first thing that came to mind. They lack Seethers certain style but they are certainly in that vein. Whereas I would describe Seether as easy listening rock with a slight South African verve, Staind are just...well... easy listening rock. There are a couple of nice additions here and there, such as the sweeping orchestral notes on "Tangled up in You". Throughout the album there's a lovely counter-play of distorted guitar, smooth acoustic and warm bass. Its almost as if the band were playing with velvet picks and guitars made of velour. It feels warm and this is testament to the good production. "This is it" sounds to me like the band have been through their Emo phase and seem to be saying "be happy with you've got and just give up"
This annoys me really. I don't think they've moved on enough. They are right in there with Creed, Nickleback and Seether and that's pretty much it. They are the Dennies to Nickleback's Maccy Dees and Seether's Red Lobster (if you'll forgive the American metaphors). They have the quiet moments, slow riffs building into dramatic choruses. It's what you'd expect from a band that's been doing this for a while. If you are into this kind of thing, you'll love it. But I suspect there's no rock-anthems on this album, although you just know mainstream radio will find one!