BREAKING BENJAMIN: PHOBIA

SCORE: 98/100

'Phobia' might just be one of the most underrated and underappreciated gems of all time. With songs that will instantly stick to you without letting go, Breaking Benjamin created songs that are both heavy and dark while mixing in catchy and memorable lyrics alongside sensual atmospheres in songs like 'Topless'.

Each song takes something new to add and give to the album while keeping a deeply concordant and harmonic soundscape to the album as a whole entity rather than just a song-by-song basis. It keeps the ball rolling and manages to do multiple different things all at once - introducing new sounds that keep the album afloat and interesting to listen to at every turn. Burnley's vocal performances are deeply pleasant on each of the tracks, and songs like 'You' and 'Topless' dive into melodic territory similar to the sonic elements and deep dives into melody and harmony found on albums by Deftones in particular. The songs can go from dark and gritty to sultry and alluring with what is seemingly the flip of a switch; making an album suitable for any and every mood possible in the span of just 43 delightful minutes.

There's the hard and vigorously spirited tracks that melt into softer melodies before picking right back up - creating a wonderful and captivating atmosphere full of builds and turns that keep the listening experience truly fresh and enjoyable within each and every switch, element, growl, and croon of the guitars; the elements of the album coming together into one deeply cohesive and unique project that pushes the limits of its genre and creates something so versatile and entertaining that it should be a must-hear without any doubts. 

It's a rugged and punchy album - going from hard-hitting to soft in an instant and creating countless memorable moments along the way, 'Phobia' doesn't let up or stop the heat for even a minute - with each track delving deep into new territory and showcasing the versatility and style of the band excellently.

'Phobia' is a truly invigorated and innovative rock album that pushes boundaries and makes an album where every track does something exciting; leaving you at the edge of your seat while creating gorgeous atmospheres and a stunning palate of songs that can be played again and again without wearing thin.

Each track holds something special and the album passes by in an instant - with the tracks going by incredibly quickly and the album being wholeheartedly enjoyable from front to back without any pauses in the energy or quality at the core of the album. It got a bit slower near the end of the album, but it kept the energy coming quite well with practically no weak points to be found.