Reviewed by Tony Cummings

In the extended thank yous on Tyler and Josh's latest hit, this extraordinary duo spell it out. "We want to thank God for sending his son and for guiding this band's story from the start," followed by the telling line "and to our haters 'you know you like "Stressed Out".'" Rolling Stone headed a review of 'Trench' "Still Stressed, More Cohesive" and sure enough the lyrical preoccupations of this, the band's fourth album, remain the sheer stressfulness of modern life. Now though, a little of the duo's wildly eccentric eclecticism heard on those early albums has been reined back. This was probably thanks to bringing in Paul Meany as a co-producer. Paul is leader of another Christian band working in the mainstream, Mutemath. There's plenty of creative innovation on 'Trench'. For instance, there's the slow burning rap song on the dark and brooding "Neon Gravestones" built on a piano riff and some electronic percussion with a flow which points the finger at a media that glorifies suicide and suggests we should admire those who have gone through life rather than those chasing an early grave. Then there's "The Hype", an alternative rock chant with an out-there ukulele break. For Cross Rhythms' money, the two best cuts are "My Blood", an indie pop song about remaining loyal to a friend, and the rather moving tribute to Tyler Joseph's deceased grandfather, "Legend". And on that too you've got that quirky ukulele turning up again. It's unlikely that 'Trench' will get anywhere near the triple Platinum sales enjoyed by 'Blurryface'. But few will deny that the eclectic duo from Ohio continue to make music which is always intriguing and occasionally brilliant.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.