Incubus-If Not Now, When?
Incubus have slowly but surely moved away from the heavy funk-metal sounds that once defined them since 1997's classic "S.C.I.E.N.C.E" and their seventh album is the furthest away they've yet come, with sparse acoustics and lilting ballads taking centre stage. The results are a mixed bunch with soaring highs and tedious lows. 'Thieves' is a brilliant example of the former with its airy chorus in which vocalist Brandon Boyd's voice really takes flight and creates a true gem of a song, 'Defiance' is another great example, being perhaps the album's most stripped-back track and a reminder of the true power just a voice and guitar can make.
On the flipside, the overlong 'In The Company Of Wolves' feels indulgent and unnecessary with nice vocal hooks being lost in a whirl of unneeded experimentation and the artificial dance groove that powers through 'Switchblade' feels out of place and, again, unneeded. The album is therefore very much a hit and miss affair but its greatest moments are arguably the most enjoyable songs the band have produced since 2001's beautiful "Morning View" opus.
It's safe to say that most long-term fans of the band shall be even further repelled by their past heroes with this effort but those who persevere shall find a handful of breezy gems to enjoy. Lead single 'Adolescents' is a massive sounding sing-along while 'Isadore' is perfect for a warm summer night and 'The Original' is a shimmering ode to love with echoing acoustics and wonderful vocals, it's just a shame that one must sternly wade through a collection of lacklustre efforts to get to the merits of the record. Album closer 'Tomorrow's Food' unfortunately ends the record with the latter thought in mind with its predictable and unengaging ballad structure but if one can get past such blemishes they'll be rewarded.
If you're looking for an album to relax to in the summer sun, definitely get involved with this, if you're an Incubus fan still give this a go but don't expect any return to their previous sound. In a nutshell, Incubus may never return to the form they once had but this is still a decent effort.