Artist: Breaking Benjamin Album: Phobia

Year: 2006
Duration: 46:45

A Critical Review of the Album: Phobia by Breaking Benjamin

Breaking Benjamin is an American rock band that was founded in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, in 1999. The band consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Benjamin Burnley, lead guitarist Jasen Rauch, bassist Aaron Bruch, drummer Shaun Foist, and rhythm guitarist Keith Wallen. The band has produced numerous albums that have gained worldwide recognition, including the hit album, Phobia, which is one of their most popular albums to date. Today, we will be taking a closer look at this album, discussing its music genre, best songs, innovative parts, and overall quality.

Phobia is an album that is rooted in alternative metal, post-grunge, and nu-metal genres. Benjamin Burnley's raspy and emotive vocals are the soul of the album, accompanied by Jasen Rauch's heavy and melodic guitar riffs. The music is intense, and the lyrics reflect feelings of anxiety, fear, and anger. The album opens with Intro, a short instrumental piece that sets the tone for the rest of the songs. The most popular songs on the album include Breath, Diary of Jane, Until the End, and Evil Angel. These songs showcase the band's versatility, combining heavy guitar riffs with catchy melodies and poignant lyrics.

One of the most innovative parts of the album is the use of electronic synths and distorted sounds, which add to the overall ambiance of the songs. Songs like Topless and Unknown Soldier feature intricate guitar solos and unique vocal stylings that make them stand out in the album. Dance With the Devil is another song that showcases the talent and creativity of the band, featuring acoustic guitar sounds that blend beautifully with Benjamin Burnley's vocals. The album also includes slower songs like Here We Are, which have a softer and more mellow sound that balances out the heaviness of the album.

However, as with many albums, Phobia is not without its faults. While the album has many standout songs, some tracks feel like filler tracks that don't add much to the overall quality of the album. The album feels a bit one-dimensional at times, with many songs sounding similar in style and structure. Additionally, some of the lyrics can be repetitive and cliché, which detracts from the album's message.

In conclusion, Phobia is a powerful and intense album that highlights the talents of Breaking Benjamin. The band's ability to blend heavy guitar riffs with poignant lyrics is nothing short of impressive. The album's use of electronic synths and distorted sounds adds an innovative touch that separates it from other albums in the genre. While the album has its shortcomings, it is still an excellent example of alternative metal and post-grunge rock. Overall, Phobia is a must-listen for any Breaking Benjamin fan and anyone looking for an album that packs a punch.