Gift
Gift places Taproot firmly inside the heavy, emotional sound of early nu metal. The guitars hit hard, the rhythm section keeps the music moving, and Stephen Richards switches between restrained singing, rapping and sharp screams. There is plenty of energy in the band's major-label debut. The problem is how often that energy leads towards familiar ideas instead of a clear identity of their own.
Smile gives the album a forceful opening. Its quieter verse sets up a much harsher chorus, with Richards' scream providing the strongest contrast. Again & Again follows with a more immediate melody. The singing gives its chorus a clear shape, showing that Taproot can make the hook matter as much as the weight around it.
The playing is capable throughout. Jarrod Montague brings movement into the drums, and the bass is audible enough to contribute to the arrangements. These details help the songs feel more active than a simple wall of guitar would suggest. The band sound committed to the music, even when the writing remains close to the genre's established habits.
1 Nite Stand illustrates the uneven results. An interesting bass opening promises more than the song ultimately develops, and the arrangement struggles to reach a convincing destination. Believed has a stronger chorus, but the rapped delivery around it feels less natural than the singing. Richards' voice has character, though its nasal edge and changes of approach will divide listeners.
Comeback is more effective. Its harder, faster playing gives the vocal a strong setting, and the performance makes the song easier to distinguish from the surrounding material. Yet even the highlights depend heavily on ingredients already familiar from other bands. The record has enough changes to remain active without always making those changes memorable.
Gift is most enjoyable when its directness becomes the point. The strongest hooks and energetic performances make it a worthwhile listen for fans of this style. Across the complete album, repetition and less convincing vocal choices reduce the impact. Taproot show ability and commitment, but the songs need more individual character to make this a consistently strong introduction.
