Welcome To The Freakshow kicks off with thumping energy, which is exactly what you expect. Save Me is a brillant track, this continues with Ladies Come First.
Suddenly – a sensitive element, not really my thing to be honest, Hinder really shines when they’re belting out their tracks with passion. Saying that, Should Have Known Better is actually a good song, I just felt it withdraws the energy that started the album so well.
Freakshow – The perfect track for drinking whiskey and watching dancing girls.
The same happens with Talk To Me as does with Should Have Known Better. Just as the pace gets you going, the band seems intent on calming you down to listen to how sensitive they are. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a place for sentimental songs, but I’m left confused by the chance in pace and direction.
Get Me Away From You carries on the softer element of Hinder’s song writing. Much the same for Is It Just Me.
By this point I’m getting disappointed. Welcome To The Freakshow starts with so much promise, and then delivers something completely different. I’m not criticizing the band’s musical ability. Its very clear these guys know what they’re doing. Every now and then up pops influence from a variety of genres, classical (strings backing in Save Me), country, rock, metal, electronica (syths in Wanna Be Rich) and, dare I say it – pop.
It turns out this was Hinder’s intention all along:
“We like to think we can do anything. We don’t want to be stuck in a rut with one type of sound or formula. One song might have a country influence, while another might have a pop influence. Then, there are some heavy metal moments. We have every element covered on this record. You’ve got to do what’s best for the song.” – Cody Hanson.
It might be what’s best for the song, but thats not the same as being whats best for the album
The production is flawless. I really can’t pick a hole in it. One thing you can’t deny is Hinder are committed to what they do, you don’t play this well without putting time and passion into it.
Ultimately Welcome To The Freakshow isn’t a bad album, but be ready for the constant change in theme. You might disagree and think its great. I guarantee your girlfriend will love it.
Welcome To The Freakshow is out on December 3rd via Universal Records.
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