Lostprophets - 'Liberation Transmission' (Visible Noise) Released 26/06/06

Wanted! 3 to 6 inventive and original songs, will accept anything half decent or catchy, please contact Ian Watkins ASAP! This decline and desperation is a far cry from the creative sound and jaw dropping energy Lostprophets oozed when they first hammered down the rock door in 2001. Their exhilarating brand of in-your-face nu metal/ punk rock featured mosh-pit inducing riffs and anthems that triggered a die hard fan base. After a mixed reception for second album ‘Start Something’, the pressure on their not so eagerly awaited third was certainly on. A make or break situation has surfaced and by this heartless showing it seems the heights of their debut are a distant memory.

‘Rooftops’ is a failed attempt at a slow meaningful track that’s as moving as London traffic. Therefore it’s a complete mystery why it was chosen as their first single. Surely this cringe worthy dribble would act as a deterrent for any potential buyer. The Welsh lads have steadily softened there sound to the point that it’s safe for toddlers to play with. What used to be ear piercing, riot initiating chaos is now nothing more than a string of soulless songs that pass you by with out a second thought. 

‘The New Transmission’ sounds like an All American Rejects b-side, while ‘Can’t Stop’ reeks of an appeal to be signed up by Drive-Thru records.  The highlight of ‘Liberation Transmission’, apart from when track twelve finishes, is opening track ‘Everyday Combat’ which immediately rips into a thumping riff full of purpose and zest. Watkins voice sounds confident and everything seems set for decent album. But after a promising opening it soon drifts into uninspiring, done a hundred times before emo.

Glynn’s song about cooking his first egg on Big Brother is more innovative and captivating than half the sludge served up here. None of the tracks compare with the stunning ‘Shinobi vs Dragon Ninja’ or the addictive ‘Burn’. Instead you are left scratching your head wondering how one of the most talented bands have turned into a disappointing ‘also rans’.