Papa Roach has released a lot of music in a short period of time, averaging one album every two years. Even though their sound has been gradually adapting, they are a band that has remained relevant since the late 90s.
While Papa Roach initially fit the nu metal label, each album has a slightly different sound from the last. Now, about to release their new album, Who Do You Trust?, the band has followed what seems to be a trend, using many elements of electronic music. Vocalist Jacoby Shaddix stated that the next album will delve deeper into all of Papa Roach's influences.
In preparation for their new album, which arrives on January 18th, Wikimetal ranked the band's albums. Check out the order, from worst to best:
9. Old Friends From Young Years (1997)
The beginning of it all. Old Friends From Young Years is a self-produced album, from a time when the band hadn't yet embraced nu metal. Jacoby Shaddix used the persona of Coby Dick , which initiated the sound that would become their characteristic rap/rock sound. A band that still needed polishing, but already showed glimpses of what it would become.
8. Metamorphosis (2009)
The 2009 album feels like a step backward after the success of The Paramour Sessions . The single "Hollywood Whore" didn't stand the test of time, leaving the title of the album's biggest single to "Lifeline." Metamorphosis is an uneven album, with not very memorable songs.
7. FEAR (2015)
FEAR is a lukewarm album. It has some very inspired moments, some of which even rank among the band's best songs. But, overall, it was an attempt to evolve their sound, which would yield better results later on. The more electronic approach didn't appeal to everyone, but it did produce some great tracks. "Gravity," "Falling Apart," and "Broken As Me" are three of them. Tracks where the mix of heavier sound with artificial beats worked well.
6. lovehatetragedy (2002)
With the success of Infest , it was difficult for fans to get used to the lack of rap, so present in the previous album. This album delves more into sung vocals and a dark lyricism. "Time And Time Again" is a little gem, often overlooked compared to the beloved "She Loves Me Not." It's a good work from the band's early phase.
5. The Connection (2012)
The Connection is an underrated album. The songs are accessible, but at the same time deal with profound issues. The themes the band addresses include the personal struggles of its members as well as the group's own struggle to remain relevant. The album features some powerful tracks like "Where Did The Angels Go" and "Before I Die".
4. The Paramour Sessions (2006)
The last album with drummer Dave Buckner features extremely energetic rock, as exemplified by "To Be Loved." It feels complete and consistent from beginning to end. "Forever," "Reckless," and "Crash" have a darker feel. One of the band's greatest achievements throughout their career.
3. Getting Away With Murder (2004)
Getting Away With Murder came right after Lovehatetragedy and, compared to it, is a huge step forward. Jacoby Shaddix delivers one of the most poignant songs on “Scar” and a true hit with the title track, whose chorus is still remembered today. One of the great examples of Papa Roach's energetic rock.
2. Crooked Teeth (2017)
Crooked Teeth is the band's biggest sonic evolution, while still remaining true to its roots. The title track is quite reminiscent of their early sound, a gift for fans. But here, the electronic influences from the previous album are more refined, enhancing each track. Social awareness also makes an appearance in "American Dreams" and "None of the Above." The entire album is non-stop, without fillers. It deserves to be called one of the band's best.
1. Infest (2000)
Papa Roach's timing was perfect. Right at the peak of nu-metal, the band released their most brutal, raw album, with the best balance between rock and rap. It features one of the most memorable songs of the generation, "Last Resort," heavy and sincere. It also capitalizes on the revolutionary moment of the turn of the century with "Between Angels And Insects." Infest secured Papa Roach's place in rock history.