A decade ago Staind pretty much landed in the multi platinum major leagues after receiving a leg up from Limp Bizkit.  Their first couple of releases saw them very much a part of the nu metal scene whilst later on their bigger selling releases moved them more into the world of Pearl Jam, Tool, and Alice in Chains. Following the alternative metal sounding and uber selling release of 'Break the Cycle' things went on the gradual slippery slope towards radio friendliness which provided the guys with loads of airplay and more hit singles, but also strangely alienated them a little from their own original following and the musical scene where they were one of the big hitters. Things shall we say "went all a little too mellow sounding" as songs were built on the emotional qualities of Aaron Lewis' vocals, to the point that Aaron Lewis himself even had a chart topping EP in the country sales chart, never mind nu metal we were now talking non metal.

Those that have heard this album or the songs that seemed to have been sneaked out via the web as warmers for the album, such as 'Not Again' and 'Eyes Wide Open' will already know that Staind have woken up and remembered that they are a band of the hard rocking variety, as they have pulled out the stops to remind everyone that there is more to Staind than ballads, or country and western music.  In saying that though there are a couple of mellower tunes contained within this their seventh studio album, however these are predominately aggressive in delivery.

Staind could never really be categorised as "leaders of their field" and do you get the feeling that with this release its all about the guys rediscovering the fires in the bellies and recapturing a place in time as opposed to tearing up the musical rulebook whilst forging a path of flames for all else to follow. The album opens in fine fashion with the previously mentioned 'Eyes Wide Open', which is also probably the best track on the album shaking the dust from the Staind can high up on the rock shelf.  The repentant 'Throw It All Away' could have been on any of the recent releases but the vocals and toughened up sound creates a tension previously missing. 'Wannabe' has special guest Snoop Dogg rapping in-between a full on metal scream vocal delivery, this track in particular providing the greatest hint of intention that Staind are back and really pissed off again.  'Staind' sees the band show a lot of anger and angst, which has been missing from them in recent years, and this in itself is a bit of a career gamble, as the fans of the radio friendly output could be alienated here.  The fans of the formative years however will no doubt see this album, as a much needed return to form.  With repeated listens though I think they have got the balance about right for both camps to like 'Staind'.

Generally though 'Staind' doesn't break any new ground as its largely an album written for existing fans gained throughout their extensive career but herein also lies the irony, the most memorable track is probably ''Something To Remind You'', yup, you guessed it, a stripped down back to basics ballad that brings everything to a close.

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