Alien Ant Farm's major label debut easily sets them apart from any Papa Roach clone tag that may have been thrust upon them as a result of being the first band signed to the aforementioned acts imprint label. But rather than partake in a mixture of rap and rock, the group sound like a pairing of Far, Sugar Ray and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, creating a colorful musical work of both art and intelligence. Indeed what we have here is an amazingly catchy yet aggressive burst of new metal colliding with alternative rock that has enough pop tendencies to satisfy those who like their music heavy as well as those who don't.

Vocally infectious, its almost without question that the listener will be left singing along to the huge hooky choruses and charming verses that are included on this disc. Sounding a bit more emotional and invigorated from the bands last release, front man Dryden unleashes an emotionally touching performance that is filled with such energy, that his voice almost waivers with each word spoken, pushing it out of his throat with a restrained force that is as intriguing as it is captivating. This all unfolds over top of screeching guitar work that pays as much attention to ambient hues and colorful harmonics as it does shredding riffs digestible enough to invoke an aggressive release without bludgeoning the listener senseless. However, the groups secret weapon comes in the form of bassist Tye whose odd timed plucks and note progressions have a piquant flair with a humble funk and jazz influence that gives the songs a healthy sprinkle of zest and dynamics. This would be a tasty enough treat on its own, but fortunately the pot is sweetened even more by animated and inspiring drum performances which also stray from conventional time structures, especially which tracks like the outright contagious "Sticks And Stones".

They incorporate many musical instruments into this album from maracas to upright basses and the sound created as a result is a rich experience for the listener. This is also solidified by proficient musicianship that is represented within unique song structures and clever writing techniques that feel welcome and inviting overall. As such, its not hard to see that this band will be big, very big, in the near future. Their charm and easily digestible allure shall without a doubt make them a crossover hit on the radio and their songs almost seem to effortlessly sum up the summertime vibe and mentality. Alien Ant Farm's chance to take their music worldwide is finally upon them and with the impressive performance captured on this debut, its a safe bet to say that one day they may even be releasing an real anthology showcasing the gems they release through what looks to be a long and successful career if things are kept up to this caliber of quality on their future efforts.