Although 12 Stones seem to have shied away from their first album’s screamo-like tendencies and have adapted a more mainstream rock image, the band still delivers a positive message through great music. Long time fans and new listeners alike will enjoy this album!
The band’s newest album, Beneath the Scars, introduces a solid lineup of 14 songs, complete with a few rock ’em sock ’em anthems and a handful of softer ballads. Unlike most popular rock bands that drench their albums with songs of forlorn lovers and forgotten promises, BTS focuses on delivering a message of overcoming obstacles and shaking off the negative influences in life. A sort of underdog anthem, if you will.
Beneath the Scars introduces three singles within the first four songs. (Great song placement, guys.) They must really want listeners to like this album… Songs to look out for:
- Infected: The most downloaded song on the album. Coincidence? Definitely not!
- Only Human: Listening to this song gives insight as to what 12 Stones seeks to achieve through their music. Sort of an album theme.
- Shine On Me: A very catchy chorus and classic 12 Stones melodic breakdown.
12 Stones has shuffled through a ton of lineup changes, but BTS includes 4 returning musicians and only one brand-spanking, new addition (the bassist). So, don’t fret. BTS may remind listeners of their second LP, Potter’s Field, but with an added bit of lyrical and musical maturity. Throughout the years 12 Stones seem to have focused more on the content of their music, the emotion instead of the energy. Yet, Beneath the Scars has produced a nice blend of both!
Looking to purchase this awesome album???
The album is not easy to find in most stores, but can be bought online for a decent price. (Who goes to stores, anymore?) Look to spend $11 plus tax.
There have been quite a few delays on this album. The album (formerly titled Only Human) was originally dated for release in August of 2011, but was pushed back a number of times until finally releasing in May of 2012 under the current title. The reason for postponing the numerous release dates was said to have been due to sound mixing/mastering and album touchups. Though, the band was transitioning between set members throughout the creation/re-creation of the album, and this may have been a contributing factor to the delays.
Sounds Like: Nickleback, Breaking Benjamin, Skillet, Creed