It’s been just over two years since their last record, but Anberlin are back, sticking to their tried and true formula: aggressive sounds and sentimental meanings. They might have left the ‘darker’ elements out, but there’s just as much angst as ever.
The most notable progression on this album is in the band’s instrumentals. The first track, “Self-Starter”, has an excellent synth riff, made even more pronounced when vocalist Stephen Christian sings along to it in the pre-chorus. Plus, there’s an awesome drum section before the bridge.
The finest moment on the album must, however, go to “Little Tyrants”. The song captures all the best aspects of the band – Christian’s multi-textured voice, intricate guitar work, heavy drumbeats and a chorus of crowd vocals in the background – while introducing some new elements, such as low piano keys under the verses. To be honest, I can’t understand why it wasn’t the first single, as it is the most powerful moment on the record.
“God, Drugs and Sex” is the closing track on the album, and it doesn’t disappoint either. It features guest vocals from Christie DuPree, the sibling/cousin to the members of the band Eisley, and singer in the duo Merriment [with her brother Collin]. Her angelic voice compliments the track nicely, bringing Vital to a gentle close – and yeah, they had to have a track over six minutes.
Unfortunately, Vital isn’t without its weaker moments. “Innocent” may have a beautiful instrumental, but the lyrics feel awkward and clichéd, while “Type Three” screams filler track. More optimistically, they’re on either side of the song “Desires”, which has a great bassline and punchy chorus, so it’s almost worth the substandard brackets.
Anberlin have never made radical changes when it comes to their sound, but their fans know what they like, so this record is sure to satisfy them. You know what they say: if it ain’t ‘dismantled’, don’t ‘repair’ it.
Review Score: 6.7 out of 10.
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