Five Crooked Lines

Five Crooked Lines- Album Overview

Released on July 31, 2015, "Five Crooked Lines" marks a significant evolution in the sound and artistic vision of Canadian rock band Finger Eleven. This album arrives after a four-year hiatus following their previous release, "Life Turns Electric," and represents a bold step forward for the band. Released under the label The Bicycle Music Company, "Five Crooked Lines" showcases a blend of alternative rock and post-grunge, incorporating elements of hard rock and electronic influences, which reflects the band's willingness to experiment with their sound.

The album was produced by the band themselves, along with the assistance of producer and engineer, Matt Hyde. Their collaborative effort is evident throughout the tracks, with a strong emphasis on lyrical depth and musical complexity. The album features singles like "Wolves and Doors," which became a prominent part of their live shows, and "Lost," both of which highlight the band's signature sound while also pushing into new territory.

Culturally, "Five Crooked Lines" signifies a maturation of Finger Eleven's music, addressing themes of introspection, personal struggle, and resilience. The album's production quality is polished yet retains an organic feel, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to shine through. This release not only reinforces Finger Eleven's place in the rock scene but also invites a new generation of listeners to explore their discography.

Review

"Five Crooked Lines" is a testament to Finger Eleven's ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity. The album's sound is characterized by heavy guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, combined with introspective lyrics that delve into personal and existential themes. Tracks like "Wolves and Doors" exemplify this balance, with a driving beat that complements lead singer Scott Anderson's emotive vocal delivery.

The lyrics throughout the album reflect a journey of self-discovery and the complexity of human emotions, resonating with listeners on multiple levels. The band’s willingness to tackle darker themes sets this album apart from their earlier work, showcasing their growth as artists. The production is crisp and layered, allowing each instrument to contribute to the overall soundscape without overshadowing Anderson's vocals.

However, while the album demonstrates a commendable evolution, there are moments where it feels overly polished, potentially alienating long-time fans who prefer the raw edge of their earlier material. Nevertheless, "Five Crooked Lines" successfully captures the band's essence while inviting new influences into their sound.

Highlights

• Strong lyrical depth exploring personal themes
• Intricate production that balances polish with emotional resonance
• Successful blending of hard rock elements with alternative influences

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel overly polished compared to earlier works
• A few songs lack the immediate impact of their most popular hits
• Risk of alienating fans of their classic sound

Overall evaluation

"Five Crooked Lines" is an ambitious and thoughtful album that showcases Finger Eleven's growth as musicians and songwriters. It successfully bridges the gap between their past and future, promising to captivate both loyal fans and new listeners alike.