Trapt Album: “Only Through The Pain [PA]”

A few months ago, I reviewd Trapt's self-titled debut album and gave it a less-than-appreciative review. The only highlight was the track "Headstrong". So, naturally, I was skeptical of ONLY THROUGH THE PAIN when I picked it up. Trapt, however, has changed drastically over six years, creating a much tighter record that is stronger on a song-for-song basis than TRAPT.

While the variety of sounds on this album might turn off many of the fans of Trapt's two previous albums (see the two reviews below mine), this album feels so much more radio-ready than anything on TRAPT minus "Headstrong". "Who's Going Home With You Tonight?", "Contagious" and "Curiosity Kills" are more of the classic, heavier Trapt, with quiet verses staggered between hammering guitar-and-bass choruses, complemented by Chris Taylor Brown's much-improved lyrics. This time around, the general focus of the album is a more searching one, placing emphasis upon improving relationships rather than destroying them. "Ready When You Are" is a straight-up ballad about learning to be patient in a romantic relationship, and "Only One in Color" is a sweeping slow-rocker comparing life before and after discovering the right person. "The Last Tear" is an acoustic-inflected track with a surprisingly bitter twist, questioning the behaviors of a drama queen. While being an awkward closer, it is one of the stronger tracks nonetheless.

In terms of musical technique, this album is much improved over TRAPT. "Wasteland" is one of the best openers I've heard in a long time, with a grinding guitar riff over a pummeling rhythm section; "Black Rose" contains a superb guitar solo in the bridge from new guitarist Rob Torres; "Forget About the Rain" has a reggae feel within the guitars and in Chris Brown's smooth, streamlined vocal delivery. "Curiosity Kills" takes bassist Peter Charrell's thumping and carries it to a whole new level, completely taking control of the song. "Cover Up" combines a fantastic melody with a more pop-like rhythm than most of Trapt's songs. Song for song, the unique twist in each track keeps this album enjoyable throughout its tight 45 minutes.

Even if you didn't enjoy Trapt's first album, give this album a try. Trapt has clearly heightened their appeal and appear to be very serious about evolving and taking their sound to new levels. This is an impressive album that I hope will get them another big hit and take them out of the shadow of "Headstrong".

I am a huge fan of Trapt, especially of "Someone In Control". That album, in my opinion was much better than their first release both lyrically and musically. I assumed that their new release would be a further evolution of both of those but unfortunately they're not. Most of the songs have flat meaningless lyrics and musically they decided to leave the guitars in their cases. Hopefully they will learn from their mistakes and release a solid album next time around.

I just recently bought this cd and I'm hooked on it, every song is great. Trapt is all a around good band

Man. Just... This album got me through some tough times. I still listen to it years later.

Songs like Black Rose, Ready When You Are, and Only One In Color are all solid love songs that will seriously melt any woman you play it for.

This review is gonna be short and sweet. Trapt has made the best album of their career so far (notice how I said so far.) Ever song on this album is a hit. You can listen to this album all the way through and you won't even think about skipping a single song. BUY THIS ONE!!!