After a brief stint testing his coaching skills on the UK's "The Voice," The Script's front man Danny O'Donoghue is back in the band with a new album, much to fans' delight. Their third album appropriately titled "#3" was released in Europe early-September, but recently hit shelves in the U.S. on Oct. 9.
Single "Hall of Fame" is a blatant attempt to be radio-friendly, featuring The Back Eyed Peas' will.i.am. While the song is catchy, it lacks the Script's classic melodic sounds and smooth vocals that enticed fans in the past. It has nothing to set itself apart from other music playing on the radio right now, even drawing strong comparisons to Gym Class Heros' "The Fighter."
The best song on the album, perhaps, is "If You Could See Me Now," an almost letter of sorts about the death of O'Donoghue and band mate Mark Sheehan's parents. The song definitely leans more toward rap as the vocals are mostly spoken, but fans of the band will appreciate a track that is reminiscent of their last album "Science & Faith."
"Good Ol' Days" is the catchiest track on the album, with an upbeat melody and even a brief tribute to a past single "For the First Time," this song is truest to the band's musical roots. It describes the importance of reminiscing and not rushing to grow up too fast, making for a definite road trip-friendly song to sing along to with a group of friends in the car.
Overall, "#3" is much more mainstream than albums in the past, however, that is not necessarily a bad thing. The Script remains true to their hip hop influences mixed with strong vocals and smooth melodies despite the sometimes pop-inspired subject matters.
Check out The Setonian's review of The Script's concert at Radio City.
The Setonian gave this 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Alexandra D'Aluisio can be reached at Alexandra.Daluisio@student.shu.edu.
