Alkaline Trio – My Shame Is True

Matt Skiba, Dan Adriano and Derek Grant, aka cult punk band Alkaline Trio have an enviable ability to make each new record sound, well, new; while still maintining a very strong  signature sound.

This is again true of My Shame is True, the latest full length from the Illinois three piece. Since 2001’s From Here to Infirmary, Alkaline Trio have relied on a triple pronged attack featuring dark lyrical themes, simple yet melodic guitar work from and an almost electronic sounding low end from Dan’s bass and Derek’s punchy drums. Vocals and song writing duties alike are shared amongst Dan and Matt which helps keep the bands’ sound fresh from one album to the next.

My Shame is True was recorded with Bill Stevenson, of punk legends Descendents, and sees a more direct element added to their sound. This is especially noticeable on lead single, She lied to the FBI, as well as tracks like I Wanna Be a Warhol and I,Pessimist which features a killer cameo from Rise Against’s Tim Mcllarth. The Torture Doctor is another particular highlight with its anthemic ‘Hey! Ho!’ chorus sure to become a future live favourite with fans.

Unfortunately its not all good news, Only Love plods along like a mid tempo ballad, while Until Death Do Us Part drifts into pure emo territory both musically and lyrically and just doesn’t fit with the rest of the record. That said, the positives far outweigh the negatives here and Sun Burns, a track sung by Dan ends the record on a high.

It’s clear that working with Bill Stevenson has helped focus the band in every sense as My Shame is True truly showcases a band in top form.