Rap-rock returns.
The reggae/punk quartet are originally from Newport in South Wales but they've somehow managed to break through to that all important American market, you can hear that influence all over the production of this record which has a very slick sound. Even though they've been going for a number of years this is only their second album so it's bound to be a welcome return for their fans.
"Roots Rock Riot" has a large percentage of single worthy tracks, like 'Alright', with its radio friendly pop melody mixed with an almost ballad section and plenty of heavy metal riffs from the guitars. The opener and title track 'Roots Rock Riot' shouts out their intent, chunky riffs, screaming and Disturbed-esque vocals weave their way through a complex yet memorable tune. This is how the album continues, overall it's a bouncy and energy filled record; the metal riffs, reggae rhythms and catchy tunes meld into a potent mixture. At times it seems that the rapping may have taken a bit of a back seat to straight singing, but that's not a bad thing as it gives the album a bit more diversity. Even with the vocal diversity, towards the middle of the album there is a slight lull; it's not a drop in quality, just a case of having heard one track you don't really need to hear too many more and sometimes it can feel a bit samey.
Of course it does pick up again; stand out tracks like 'Rude Boy For Life' is almost Coheed and Cambria in its poppiness and vocal style, the upbeat melody wins you over immediately, as does the sing along middle section and the brass. This song captures the band's appeal and energy perfectly as well as being complex enough to keep you coming back for more. 'Killing Me' follows this track up with more catchy and easy on the ear sounds but includes a killer heavy riff at the start.
A decent album with their trademark rap-rock reggae rhythms versus metal riffs in evidence, more pop than metal at times but with enough heaviness to keep metal fans happy.