Prior to the release of this album, I had been an intrested observer of Taproot. Like many promising bands, they had substantial moments of greatness that had been tarnished by concluding that screaming for much of the disc conveys more feeling than actual singing. Here, we finally find Taproot realizing their potential - crunchy guitars, sonorous vocals (just like a "blue sky"), and loads of musicallity. The lead singer is actually able to use his real voice and conveys loads of feeling. We have finally encountered an album with "roots" deep enough to leave a lasting impression that the previous two releases only pointed towards and hinted at, but never realized. I loved this album, and my bet is, you will too.

This review is a quote from my son who purchased the CD: "Firmly enjoyed the music, thumbs up"

This is a band about to be reborn, the amount of evolution in the members is remarkable. The chemistry overall is perfect with some of the songs being heart broken to even darker songs then ever heard befroe from them. I purchased this CD on release date from a local vender (In no way would i wait for this CD to ship). I just think it needs to be expressed how this album makes an impact, and i know the boys in the band are going to stick it out even tho they are being dropped their label, and are stuck on larger van for small tours, but with all this new world to them, im sure there will be more anger and determination to come from them. Amazing CD, from an amazing band.

This CD is wondorous. I've been a VERY long-time fan of Taproot, and I've enjoyed every one of their albums to date. Though I do miss the blissfully abrasive sound from "Gift" (especially the song "Smile" from that album), this album is by no means something to ignore. "I Will Not Fall For You" and "Facepeeler" have to be my favorites on this one, along with "Blue Sky Research/What's Left". Hell, all the songs are amazing.

In any case, if you're a fan of Taproot, or a fan of this type of music in general and want something unique and very fun to listen to, get this album. You will NOT be disappointed. Change is very good in this case.

GEEZ!! When will people stop bashing on bands who change up thier style of playing a little. If Di Vinci painted another painting of the Mona Lisa would anybody care? of course not! Its no longer original. Its the same with music, also an art. As bads(respectable ones) grow older their music matures and adds sophistication while still keeping their signature style, especially alt(not nu)-metal. They are artists, not musical xerox machines. If you look at legendary bands that most new bands idolize, you'll find that their music changed alot from album to album. Blue sky research had some very well written and deep songs all around both instrumentally and especially vocally. Even right off the bat with I will not fall for you(their most beautiful song yet), which is where they lost most of you idiots who dont know what real music is, the vocals and music were smooth as silk. I couldnt believe their new found sophistication when i heard it. They kept it coming the whole album most notably with calling and whats left. For those who appreciate great music buy this album immediately. For the rest of you who bashed this album, keep walking over to the pop section and buy a Good Charlotte or Green Day album. Dont worry, they're as cookie cutter as it gets. Shame on you!