Papa Roach’s newest release, The Connection, stands as testament to the band’s closeness to one another over the past two decades.
Review by Jerel Johnson
Papa Roach has endured a series of ups and downs since its formation nearly 20 years ago. The group’s newest release, The Connection, stands as testament to the band’s closeness to one another over the past two decades. Furthermore, the album’s title reflects the diverse songwriting on this disc.
The Connection harkens back to the band’s rap-metal era from its first release to the more traditional hard rock the band currently plays.
The album begins with a electronica-dub-step intro before kicking, or should I say punching, with the hard-hitting “Still Swingin.’” The album’s first single song shows a return of the rap-metal attack from the band’s 2000 debut Infest, but with a contemporary twist.
The middle section breaks down into a dub-step beat which fits the track rather well. The futuristic “Silence is the Enemy” is another showcase of the band’s appreciation for electronic samples but is another hard-rocking tune that induces moshing rather than dancing.
Fans of the band’s Paramous Sessions album will enjoy the punk-tinged “Breathing You In.” The song’s emotional lyrics coupled with Tony Palermo’s manic drumming instantly recalls “…To Be Loved.” The song is definitely a contender for the group next single.
Papa Roach takes a heavy turn towards the dance music genre with “Leader of the Broken Hearts,” with its downbeat sample and distant guitar riff. The song still has its heavy moments, but is the most unique song on The Connection and may surprise more than a few fans.
Papa Roach fans can rejoice in knowing The Connection is another great record by Jacoby and the boys. The album rocks hard while offerings new elements to the groups’ sound that fit fairly well. There is a mix of old and new, and several tracks that are tailored for radio. The Connection is definitely worth purchasing and fans will be hooked.
