OK so this was released at the back end of last year but what the hell there's no rule that says you can't run a review a few months late. Anyway the Wikipedia entry for this bunch reads "Incubus (band) an American alternative rock band" and you can't go far wrong with that definition. Always a band to take an eclectic approach it seems that with this album Incubus have actually turned in a more streamlined and focused set of songs, and it makes for a damn fine record.

On "Light Grenades" there's a less trippy (and in comparison to previous album "A Crow Left Of The Murder" less heavy) more melodic Incubus. First single "Anna Molly" is a perfect example of this with its driving rhythm and catchy chorus meaning that its sticks in the head for days on end and it's not on its own in this respect. "A Kiss To Send Us Off", "Diamonds And Coal" and "Paper Shoes" remain rooted in the psyche long after listening as well.

With this album Incubus have taken some very standard song structures and ever so slightly stamped their identity on them, something that only becomes more apparent with repeated listens. "Dig" for example could be dismissed as an acoustic led mid-tempo rocker very much in Goo Goo Dolls mode but throughout there's an undercurrent of constantly shifting electric guitar textures that could pass unnoticed otherwise and make a great, and subtle, enhancement.

Brandon Boyd is in fine voice throughout as well. He still displays a touch of Mike Patton about his delivery at times (which is fine by me given that "Angel Dust" is a classic in my eyes) but, whether it's up-tempo rockers like "A Kiss To Send Us Off" or sensitive acoustic ballads such as "Love Hurts", vocally he's right on the money and with the rest of the band on such tight form the combination is irresistible.

Where Incubus have occasionally been disjointed in their eclecticism in the past, this time around they've become more cohesive. There's still all of their varied influences but also a less contrived and more organic feel to the songs meaning that, whilst the music covers a lot of ground, sonically the overall effect is very satisfying.

Let us know your views on 'Light Grenades'

Track List

Quicksand
A Kiss To Send Us Off
Dig
Anna Molly
Love Hurts
Light Grenades
Earth To Bella (Part 1)
Oil And Water
Diamonds And Coal
Rogues
Paper Shoes
Pendulous Threads
Earth To Bella (Part II)

 Line Up

Brandon Boyd - Vocals
Mike Einziger - Guitar/Keyboards
Jose Pasillas - Drums
Chris Kilmore - DJ/Synths
Ben Kenney - Bass