With "The Satellite Years" Hopesfall arguably became one of the Trustkill rosters most bankable acts, quickly rising to prominence with grace and determination. While the band have progressively moved away from their antagonistic earlier roots, "A-Types" proves that their ongoing evolution isn't limited to only escaping their heavier side. For where "The Satellite Years" was a star-gazing dreamy affair with ample tributes to Hum and the like, "A-Types" is instead an ultimately more organic experience that shows the band getting back to basics.

Stripping their sound down substantially this time out, the band have taken on a more earthy aesthetic that gives their music a rather pressing relevance. Thanks to this general lack of atmospheric flourish the songs found here sound much hungrier and more endearing; with their focus shifting from space rock towards driving post-hardcore styled melodies. This grounded approach plays well with the heartfelt (albeit meandering and not exactly tuneful) vocals, which now seem more straight forward and edgy as a result. Even while numerous engaging harmonies are embellished upon the group refrain from shooting off into space. It is this imposing sense of restraint which gives the angular riffing and plodding rhythm section the ability to be the gravity that keeps everything focused; while also ensuring that each song moves forth with earnest resolve.

Still, Hopesfall haven't exactly forgotten their past output. This album does feature moments of impressive technical prowess and complex structuring. There are even a few jagged riffs and bellowing screams thrown in as well. Even so, the lack of overall experimentation present does detract from the listeners enjoyment. Sure it could be rightfully said that the band are in fact experimenting by toning themselves down. But the textural riffs and reaching for the sky mindset they once practiced were some of their strongest qualities. This newfound complacency they now exercise, while not outright, eventually amounts to a bland generic feel. The music is emphatic, yet ultimately uninspiring - lacking the cathartic experience necessary to warrant repeated spins. The structuring is disjointed, yet the songs all begin to blur together. Ultimately the same approach is just practiced far too many times and a type B personality is quickly settled upon, even if the albums title disputes it.