For Trapt, Reborn signals a fresh start. The multiplatinum Southern California quartet preserve their penchant for big riffs and even bigger hooks, but there’s a newfound sense of freedom both creatively and personally for Chris Taylor Brown [vocals, guitars], Rob Torres [lead guitar], and Pete Charell [bass]. It’s not only their first independent release outside of the traditional label system; it’s also their first to feature drummer Dylan Howard [Unwritten Law] and co-production by longtime friend Matt Thorne. However, this rebirth was forged in fire.
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After releasing their fourth full-length, No Apologies, for Eleven Seven Music, the band collectively agreed to shift gears for album number five. They had changed management, added Howard to the fold, and wanted to build a new platform for their music. “We wanted to take more creative control over everything,” explains Brown. “We decided to go independent. It was the first time we ever did that, and it was completely liberating. There was no label telling us what we could and couldn’t do. The vision was completely ours.” Expanding their patented hard rock sound, the group also seamlessly incorporated flourishes of electronic music to punctuate the drama and energy. Drawing from those influences, Brown embraced another side of himself and imbued it into Reborn. “We added a whole bunch of textures and synths, which we’ve never played around with before,” the frontman goes on. “It’s such a cool addition to the record. Of course, every song still has a great riff, but the programming is like the icing on the cake.”
Trapt have worked for well over a decade to reach this point. Their 2002 self-titled debut surpassed sales of 2 million units, and its lead-off single “Headstrong” was ranked the #1 alternative song and #8 rock song by Billboard. They were a featured act on Rock Band and Tap Tap Revenge 2, and they also fueled countless WWE specials. In addition, they’ve shared the stage with heavy hitters such as Mötley Crüe, Nickelback, Hinder, Chevelle, and many more. Most recently, No Apologies entered the Billboard Top 200 at number 25 in 2010. Still, Reborn is the next level for Trapt. Brown concludes, “Everything is new again. It’s an incredible feeling. Our fans have stuck with us since the beginning, and we really made a record for them. If the music makes them feel empowered and ready to take on their challenges, then we’ve done something right. I hope it inspires confidence and pushes them to stand up against fear or judgment. We’re proof that you should never give up.”
