Young the Giant’s third album ditches generic soft rock for a sound that is exciting. The band’s departure from their old sound to alternative rock earned them a spot at number five on the iTunes charts.

The release of singles “Something to Believe In” and “Amerika” created a lot of hype for the album’s debut on August 12. Home of the Strange easily met fans’ and critics’ high expectations. Lead vocalist Sameer Gadhia’s gentle yet powerful tone is on full display throughout the album, and of course his signature vocal riffs frequently occur throughout multiple songs. The Californian band definitely took a risk on this album, and it paid off. Young the Giant presented listeners with fresh and interesting music without abandoning who they are at the core. Their slight shift in sound shows their ingenuity and artistic integrity—they’re doing what feels right to them, not what sells. Fortunately for them, they happen to be one and the same. Each song is a true hit with masterfully written lyrics and mature instrumentals.

Beginning with the opening track “Amerika,” Home of the Strange seems to be a loose concept album. With lyrics such as “I’ve arrived with gold in my eyes,” “I’ve been searching for so long in Amerika,” and “it’s a rich kid game,” it is easy to assume this album is a reflection of the American Dream and the United States’ treatment of immigrants. Given Young the Giant’s immigrant heritage (frontman Sameer Gadhia’s parents are Indian immigrants, bassist Payam Doostzadeh is Persian-American and drummer Francois Comtois is from Quebec), we get a look into their view of America on Home of the Strange. Several other songs such as “Something to Believe In,” “Home of the Strange,” and “Titus was Born” have lyrics that suggest this theme or sounds that are distinctly and recognizably exotic.

Though the album as a whole is excellent and quite fulfilling, there is a bit of inconsistency. When Young the Giant implemented interesting vocals and full electric guitars, the results were great. Unfortunately, songs like “Elsewhere,” “Titus was Born,” and “Art Exhibit” fall just short. Young the Giant seems to revert to a soft electro-pop sound in those songs. When paired with the rest of the album, the three songs are a bit boring and disappointing.

This album will be a great start if you’ve never listened to Young the Giant, and a refreshing change for long-time fans. The band is playing a sold out show at the Pageant on September 29, so hopefully you have already bought your tickets!

Favorite tracks: “Repeat,” “Silvertongue”

Least favorite track: “Titus was Born”

Rating: 8/10