By Amanda Newell
Staff Writer
When coming back from a musical hiatus, usually bands try to create a unique sound to draw in new listeners and old fans. The Fray, however, manage to stay close to their roots while experimenting with new sounds. “Scars & Stories” follows almost the same slow rock formula as the band’s previous albums with its piano ballads, distinct lyrics and melancholic sound.
However, this did not take away from the album’s overall sound. The band kept its famous sentimental sound from past albums but tweaked it just enough to produce a one-of-a-kind album.
The Denver, Colorado natives released their first album, “How to Save a Life,” in 2005. The band’s success continued with the release of singles “How to Save a Life” and “Over My Head (Cable Car),” propelling The Fray into musical notoriety.
The band continued on with its next self-titled album in 2009, featuring singles “You found Me” and “Never Say Never.” After taking a break in 2009, fans of The Fray highly anticipated the band’s release of a new album.
“Scars & Stories” features tracks with the Fray’s classic mellow sound. Although not exactly identical to previous records, the new album follows the same pattern of soft rock songs varied with upbeat tracks to create a unique flow through the album.
Front man Issac Slade has a distinct and mesmerizing voice that sets the band apart from others. “Scars & Stories” is easily distinguishable because of Slade’s entrancing vocals.
Adding to the album’s familiar sound are the piano ballads in almost every track. The Fray’s use of the piano throughout their music also helps establish their signature sound.
Although critiqued for their “unoriginal lyrics,” The Fray stepped it up with deep, significant lyrics on the album. Songs like “Heartbeat” tell stories through the lyrics of love, loneliness and heartbreak.
Songs like “Turn Me On” and “Ready or Not” demonstrate the band’s efforts to vary the tone of their music. With this variation, The Fray have produced a unique-sounding album.
One of the last tracks on the album, “Boulder to Birmingham,” features a melodious duet between Slade and female artist Emmylou Harris. The track’s melancholy love lyrics add a nice touch to the album in all.
Although The Fray’s “Scars & Stories” does not stray from the band’s usual slow rock sound, an array of upbeat songs and storytelling lyrics makes the album an enjoyable listen. “Scars & Stories” can be purchased digitally and at most music retailers.
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