I’ve decided that there is, indeed, heavenly purpose as to the survival of middling rock bands: strip clubs need music.
For whatever reason, the presence of deafening riff-heavy guitars, bad singers, and a slapdash mixture of awful ballads and catchy upbeat songs fit the bill perfectly. Those plastic high heels, cheap drinks, dim lights, and bizarre smells go hand-in-hand with the music of Nickelback, Saliva, Hinder, Staind, and anything Scott Stapp’s ever touched.
With Metamorphosis, Papa Roach attempts to enter the pink thong-droppin' shindig.
Now before we go getting into a late night parking lot fracas over this, let me explain that strip club music isn’t all bad. There’s nothing wrong with obnoxious, careless rock music. It’s fun, for starters, and bands like AC/DC and Motley Crue have been making careers out of it without any apologies.
Papa Roach once represented, at least in some measure, the voice of tormented youth. I remember seeing the video for rapcore anthem “Last Resort” and marveling at how these guys got so many kids to “wish somebody would tell them they’re fine” even though nothing was. Amazingly, the song and the band had captured the attitude of the 2000 teen. Bands like Linkin Park would walk similar ground, but everybody’s gotta evolve eventually, right?
In many ways, Papa Roach is doing the same thing they’ve always done. With no clear theme or true sense of direction, Metamorphosis seems like a gathering of songs tossed together at the last minute. The record begins with an attempted call to action (“Change or Die”) but proceeds to demonstrate the four-piece refusing to heed their own instruction.
Sure, there are moments of bawdy amusement dead-certain to feature on many an Amateur Night. “I Almost Told You That I Loved You” may roll like a Buckcherry rip-off, but it’s the most fun song on the record. Vocalist Jacoby Shaddix squeals some fucking ridiculous lyrics with snarling glee and the chorus is catchy and enjoyable.
Article comments
1 - Dean
I actually think the album is awesome! Everyones entitled to their own oppinion though but I really dig it and their live show is great!
2 - Rachel
Yeah I think it's great too! I was surprised.
3 - Alice
I never paid attention to Papa Roach until Lifeline came out...I think I've decided to give the album a chance.
4 - Rachel
And? What do you think of it?
5 - Rachel
What did you think of it?
6 - Allisson
Sooo good!!! I would have never expected. Every single track is so catchy!
7 - Rachel
Good! I'm glad!! :D I converted all my friends to like them!
8 - Jackie
Haha nice! I've converted a few of my friends.
9 - Morgan
They're not bad, I like some of their singles.
10 - Jamie
I agree, as other's have said I believe that the album is actually pretty awesome. Although it's nice to get someone elses view on it.
11 - McCall
Man, shut up. You obviously have no idea what you are talking about. Papa Roach's new album is amazing. Their sound is unique, and not at all grunge rock. It's a mix between rock and metal. OH, and look into the lyrics a bit more, and there is meaning. 'Lifeline' is a powerful song. I'm sure you couldn't come up with anything near as good. Your opinion sucks (:
12 - Trevor
i converted my girlfriend... she thinks she knows more than me about them its funny
13 - Trevor
and yes the album was amazing... they could have had a better cover tho, i still love it