Breaking down the themes in Something Supernatural by Crobot
Something Supernatural- Album Overview
"Something Supernatural" is the sophomore studio album by the American rock band Crobot, released on October 27, 2014, through Wind-up Records. The album showcases the band's unique blend of stoner rock, hard rock, and heavy metal, delivering an energetic sound that has gained them a dedicated following. Produced by the acclaimed engineer and producer, Machine, known for his work with bands like Lamb of God and Every Time I Die, the album was recorded at the Machine Shop in New Jersey, which helped capture the raw, live energy of Crobot's music.
The tracklist features standout songs such as "Nowhere to Hide," "Legend of the Spaceborne Killer," and "Chupacabra," each of which showcases the band’s knack for catchy hooks and powerful, riff-heavy arrangements. The album's lyrical content delves into themes of supernatural phenomena, mythological creatures, and the darker aspects of human nature, wrapped in an engaging narrative style. The presence of bassist Jake Figueroa, guitarist Chris Bishop, drummer Paul Figueroa, and vocalist Brandon Yeagley creates a cohesive sound that resonates with listeners. Singles like "Nowhere to Hide" received significant radio play and contributed to the band's growing presence in the rock scene, marking "Something Supernatural" as a significant release in the mid-2010s rock revival.
Review
The sound of "Something Supernatural" is a potent mix of heavy guitar riffs, driving bass lines, and dynamic drumming, all underpinned by Yeagley’s powerful vocals. The album successfully captures the band’s live energy, making it an exhilarating listen from start to finish. Lyrically, Crobot engages with themes that evoke curiosity and intrigue, often drawing on folklore and supernatural elements, which are reflected in the vivid imagery of tracks like "Chupacabra." The band’s artistic vision is clear: to blend hard rock with fantastical storytelling, creating an experience that is both sonically satisfying and thematically rich.
The interplay between the musicians is commendable, with each member showcasing their skills while contributing to the overall sound. However, while the album excels in energy and entertainment, there are moments where the songs feel slightly formulaic, relying on genre conventions. Nevertheless, Crobot manages to carve out their niche within the realm of modern rock, making "Something Supernatural" a noteworthy contribution to the genre.
Highlights
- Energetic and engaging sound that captures the essence of live performances.
- Vivid and imaginative lyrics that explore supernatural themes.
- Strong musicianship from all band members, creating a cohesive listening experience.
Weak points
- Some tracks may feel formulaic and predictable.
- Lack of significant stylistic variation across the album.
- Occasional reliance on genre clichés that may limit broader appeal.
Overall evaluation
"Something Supernatural" stands out as a solid album that showcases Crobot's unique approach to rock music. While it has its weaknesses in predictability and formula, the energy and themes presented make it a noteworthy listen for fans of the genre.
Personal rating: 7.5/10