Thirty Seconds To Mars - America (LP)

"America" is the fifth studio album by American rock band Thirty Seconds to Mars, released on April 6, 2018, through Interscope Records. The album marks a significant departure from the band's earlier work, embracing a more polished, pop-oriented sound while still retaining elements of their rock roots. The album was produced by Jared Leto, the band's lead vocalist, alongside a team of producers including Zedd, Robopop, and Yellow Claw.

The album opens with the track "Walk on Water," which was released as the lead single on August 22, 2017. The song is an anthemic, arena-ready track that combines electronic beats with powerful vocals and a message of resilience and defiance. It was well-received by fans and critics alike, and it became the band's fifth number one on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.

"Rescue Me," the second single from the album, was released on March 30, 2018. The song delves into themes of personal struggle and the search for redemption, set against a backdrop of pulsating synths and a driving beat. The accompanying music video, directed by Mark Romanek, features a series of intense, emotional performances from a diverse cast of individuals, further emphasizing the song's message of vulnerability and hope.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Dangerous Night," which showcases the band's ability to blend rock and electronic elements seamlessly. The song features a catchy chorus and a dynamic arrangement that builds to a powerful climax. The production is polished and modern, reflecting the band's evolution and willingness to experiment with new sounds.

"America" also includes collaborations with several notable artists. "One Track Mind" features a guest appearance by rapper A$AP Rocky, adding a hip-hop flavor to the album. The track is a slow-burning, atmospheric piece that highlights the band's versatility and willingness to push boundaries. Another collaboration, "Love Is Madness," features Halsey and explores themes of passion and chaos in relationships. Halsey's distinctive voice complements Jared Leto's, creating a compelling duet that stands out on the album.

The album's lyrical content often reflects on contemporary issues and personal experiences. "Great Wide Open" is a reflective, introspective track that contemplates the passage of time and the search for meaning in life. "Hail to the Victor" is a more aggressive, defiant song that addresses themes of power and resistance, with a driving beat and a sense of urgency.

"America" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the band's willingness to experiment with new sounds and their ability to craft catchy, radio-friendly songs. Others criticized the album for its departure from the band's earlier, more rock-oriented style and for what they perceived as a lack of cohesion and depth in the songwriting.

Commercially, the album performed well, debuting at number two on the Billboard 200 chart with 62,000 album-equivalent units, of which 54,000 were pure album sales. This marked the band's highest-charting album to date and demonstrated their continued popularity and ability to attract a broad audience.

In conclusion, "America" is a bold, ambitious album that sees Thirty Seconds to Mars exploring new musical territory while still retaining elements of their signature sound. The album's polished production, catchy hooks, and willingness to tackle contemporary themes make it a compelling listen, even if it may not satisfy all fans of the band's earlier work. Whether you appreciate the band's evolution or prefer their more rock-oriented roots, "America" is a testament to Thirty Seconds to Mars' ability to adapt and innovate in an ever-changing musical landscape.