Every Man for Himself (Red Cover)

Down to a trio (original bassist Markku Lappalainen left the band) since their previous release, The Reason, Hoobastank turns in an album with a leaner sound. That’s not to say they don’t still rock — they clearly do — but their approach has changed. Where their drumbeats were once plodding and pounding, they’re more nimble and dynamic here, and in the case of “Born to Lead,” deliver an unexpected four-on-the-floor dance beat. The still-catchy guitar riffs are less muscular than on prior releases, as the band moves closer to power chords and arena rock big choruses. They also pull off some convincing and well-written ballads in “Moving Forward” and “More Than a Memory,” both of which display the band's evolving softer side. They also bring a greater range of instruments to Every Man for Himself, most notably horns, keyboards, strings, and some acoustic guitar, giving an added depth to the band’s sound. Overall, it’s a more mature sound for Hoobastank, yet one which should still appeal to the bulk of their big fan base.