Trapt
Live!
Available Now
In an attempt to revive its flagging popularity, Trapt has released a live album recorded during a concert two years ago. The album also includes two new studio releases, "Stay Alive" and "Everything to Lose." While live records are excellent additions to the catalogs of die-hard fans, Live! will do little to expand Trapt's fan base. For the casual listener, the minute-long screams of female fans before and after each song wear thin after a couple of tracks. But though this album was recorded at a live show, the sound quality is on par with Trapt's studio releases. With Trapt's signature no-nonsense drumbeat and roaring vocals, Live! falls in line with the band's other releases. It may not see as much commercial success as "Headstrong" - the band's anthem for angst-ridden teenage boys everywhere - but it will still appeal to serious Trapt fans. If you want an overview of Trapt's music, Live! is the perfect source. If not, wait for its next studio album.
If you like this music, you might also
enjoy:
Angels and Devils - Fuel
Anthem for the Underdog - 12 Stones
Finding Beauty in Negative Spaces - Seether
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Luna Halo
Luna Halo
Available Oct. 30
Luna Halo was considered a Christian rock band until its onstage drinking and profane antics were discovered. The band of former proselytizers has released its first major project since 2000. These upbeat pop songs manage to retain artistic credibility. The first single, "Kings and Queens," is filled with high-energy guitar riffs and infectious vocals. This song, among others on the album such as "I'm Alright" and "On My Way," has already been used in popular TV shows. Renowned producer Rick Rubin - who has worked with everyone from LL Cool J to the Red Hot Chili Peppers to Shakira - is a major factor in the record's wide appeal. Lead singer Nathan Barlowe provides velvety and methodical vocals, fluctuating between pop harmonies and all-out rock balladry. While Luna Halo is largely unknown because it's on an indie label, pop acolytes should keep an ear out for this up-and-coming band.
If you like this music, you might also enjoy:
Full Circle - Drowning Pool
Kill the Headlights - Adema
The Pursuit Begins When This Portrayal of Life Ends - Evans Blue
Hot Hot Heat
Happiness Ltd.
Available Now
The title of Hot Hot Heat's second album, Happiness Ltd., is strangely accurate. The theme of happiness receives "limited" airtime on the album. After 10 downbeat songs, we reach the last track, "Waiting for Nothing," that sleepily croons, "I waited for nothing, but I waited for her." That's some heavy stuff, man. It's almost believable. If only the entire album didn't say the exact same thing. As Hot Hot Heat continues to gain popularity, it needs to learn that a chorus can be more than the infinite reiteration of a single verse. What the band lacks lyrically it tries to make up for with production. Hot Hot Heat's affiliation with My Chemical Romance's hit-makers should cue listeners to expect theatrics. The problem is the vocals lack the energy to accompany such arrangements. Hot Hot Heat has cooled off as it enters its blue period.
If you like this music, you might also
enjoy:
Calling the World - Rooney
Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga - Spoon
Icky Thump - White Stripes
