When a band matures and begins changing their sound on their newest album, fans either embrace it or begin distancing themselves like flies from soap. While not making any radical changes, the changes in Focused by Bones Brigade are obvious and appreciated. The first major change is that Andrew left with his punk/youthful screams and has been replaced by Brian with screams that are a little lower and a bit on the heavier side. Many fans were worried that this transition would not translate into good times, but quite the contrary! I'm not going to say which is better, because it's really a matter of preference, but Brian's voice aids Focused more than Andrew's would have. This is due to the musical change on Focused, which kickflips in the direction of metal. No, there aren't any brutal breakdowns, but the guitar riffs and solos blare metal and shred as fuck. Listen to "The Joust" to hear a perfect example of the new change. The solo in "Future Impaired" is so fucking CRITICAL.
But don't read this wrong, Bones Brigade are still a punk/hardcore band. You might just see them covering old Metallica instead of Minor Threat. It's refreshing to hear this sound of punk/hardcore sprayed with the melodies and technique of metal in guitars, but still hear single kick punk beats.
For those wondering how to choose between Focused and I Hate Myself When I'm Not Skateboarding, it's a matter of what you'd rather listen to. If you want a super solid punk/hardcore album that doesn't go out of the boundaries, continue listening to I Hate Myself When I'm Not Skateboarding. But if you want something a little different that still retains a punk/hardcore spin to it, listen to Focused ASAP. It'll be interesting to see what they will do on the next album. It's no Minor Threat to Embrace though.
