Papa Roach was considered by many to be the kings of the indie scene, and this CD was one of the direct causes of such a title. Musically the tone and style bring forth memories of Helmet and perhaps some light emo with a large helping of groove and rap. This CD is a definite evolution of sound, style and their technique from their previous release "Old Friends From Young Years". This time around the band brings a more organized approach with a bit less of the sloppy styled rap vocals, instead bringing more singing flowing over a tight overall rhythm. The band indeed somewhat reinvented itself but stays true to their past formula of a unique brand of aggression. If anything the music is catchier and hookier from their previous effort, it's hard to tell if the band was shooting for a sound evolution or a more commercial feel, in any case the style works and works well. Lyrically Jacoby comes through alot stronger and more melodic actually holding the notes on melodies and pounding out screams while assaulting with an almost trademarked aggravated rap in between. Lyrically the band also approaches more relevant subjects this time around which makes the music all the more enticing to the listener. Emotion peppered throughout the music also feels more focused and channeled more intricately then their previous effort as well. Musically the band brings forth hooky guitar with bouncing funk/rap basslines and a tight consistent drumbeat which keeps the music marching along at a regulated pace. The songs tend to be vocal driven vehicles on this album and it definitely is a change that is hard to grasp after listening to their first album which felt more eclectic. Standout tracks on this disc would include "Revenge In Japanese" a song that includes an incredibly catchy chorus of "It's alright we're in love, can't live with or without" The song is perhaps a staple classic of P-Roach that any fan of the band should be ashamed not to hear or have heard. Another impressive track would be "Thrown Away" which features a very driving distorted guitar that lunges the song forward in a way reminiscent of Helmet but with vocals that contain a more vast sensitive tone of emotion. Papa Roach are a band with a strong reputation that precedes them, although some fans my shy away from this release after having experienced the first album, "5 Tracks Deep" prevails as a necessary chapter in the evolution of the band and shows off an astonishing amount of potential, the sky truly is the limit for a band so talented.
(4.5 / 5)