Review of the new Trapt album DNA

Trapt stays true with DNA

Trapt is back with new album, DNA. Marked by driving sounds, this record is exactly the blend of headbanging rhythms and compelling vocals fans anticipate.

Trapt returned with another hard-hitting album, DNA, released Aug. 19. Listeners who follow Trapt will be glad to see the band has not strayed far from their signature sound. However, there does appear to be an added maturity to their work on DNA.

DNA opens with “Intro,” a gravely track, which set an angsty tone for the album in just a few moments. On its heels is the polished yet heavy “Human (Like the Rest of Us).” The video for this song is beautifully executed. With a clear storyline and Mad Max aesthetic, simplicity sets it apart from many of Trapt’s previous videos. With a great sense of clarity in imagery, listeners are free to focus on the intent behind it.

Next up is “It’s Over,” which also has an accompanying video. Representing the angry Trapt fans know and love, this third track could easily become the rocker breakup song of the year. The “It’s Over” video contains interesting visuals, which convey a sense of the unhappy lyrics without belaboring the point.

“Tangled Up In You,” though a distinctly rock track, displays a vulnerability that breaks up DNA’s train of thought in a welcome manner. Songs such as “Changing Hands” and “Passenger” contain modulating and catchy vocals layered over heavy riffs. “Anchor” and “Getting Even” incorporate a faster, almost ‘90s punk-rock fusion tone.

Standing out as one of the hardest tracks on DNA, “Unforgiven” takes on a slightly different tone. A song clearly made for headbanging; it will fill the pits at live shows.

DNA closes out with “Fallen Angel.” An apropos ending to this record, it is simultaneously sad and hopeful. “Fallen Angel” acts as a great transition into the bonus acoustic tracks. It is unusual to hear successfully executed stripped-down songs from such a heavy band. However, evidenced by the 2014 album Acoustic Collection, Trapt is able to do just that.

Trapt’s DNA is in many way exactly what one would expect. However, elements are incorporated that keep the sound notably fresh as the band grows with its audience.