Tampa Calling

It’s about time Incubus graced us with their musical presence again. For the past three years we’ve had to make do with listening to their 2006 album Light Grenades. Don’t get me wrong — my ears thoroughly enjoyed it (It was, after all,  No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200), but after a good week of replaying the CD in my car, I carelessly tossed it in the back seat and retrograded back to my faithful Led Zeppelin collection.

I almost forgot all about my long-time love of Incubus. But I have good news friends; They’re back! Monuments and Melodies hit stores June 15th and it has been playing in my car and on my laptop ever since. The two-disc album showcases their greatest hits and new favorites to add to your list. For fans, this disc a must-have.

Once again, the multi-platnium musicians have managed to create music that withdraws the listener from reality and corners us in a place where nothing else matters. Brandon Boyd truly knows the meaning of melodies — his vocals are shocking and lyrics intricate. The title track is a dreamy love song that a fan normally wouldn’t expect from Incubus, but in the end would soon call it a personal favorite.

A surprising end to the album is a Prince cover, “Lets Go Crazy.” At first I absolutely hated it, but it grew on me and I think it was a bold move. It is evident that the band is exploring new sounds and taking risks that most bands don’t have the balls to take. And that just makes me love them even more.

Incubus has an unforgettable radio history. Recently “Love Hurts” hit the airwaves and quickly made its way to No. 1 on alternative radio. Hoping to follow in its footsteps, “Black Heart Inertia”  hit radios on April 16. The response was positive.

Their Monuments and Melodies Tour kicks off on July 9t in San Diego. They come to Tampa on August 15 at the Ford Amphitheater. Get your tickets now before it’s too late and pick up a copy of Monuments and Melodies. I promise you won’t be let down.

Posted in New Releases, Reviews | Leave a comment