When you get sent an album which is by an independent artist which is rather good and all proceeds of album sales go to charity, you generally sit up and take notice. Daniel Trigger introduces his third solo album, Time of the Titans as hard rock with downtuned guitars and taking cues from Guns N’ Roses, Alter Bridge and Nickelback (don’t hold that last one against him).
So basically, it’s like a lot of new bands out there trying to make a name for themselves. However, this is different. Although melodic, there’s a swagger and attitude to it. One which only comes from a man who’s been around the block. It may not have the hunger present in the new, young bands but what it lacks there, it makes up for in assuredness and a desire to create. And if you use what you know to help raise money for three great causes, it’s a great trade-off.
While the influences may be responsible for thousands of bands cropping up in recent years, here they’re utilised to make something completely different from what you’d expect. There’s more of an 80s vibe to it, mainly due to Trigger’s voice and the melodic parts. Think Journey, Europe, Toto: bands of that ilk with their guitars tuned way down. It’s something which shouldn’t work but it totally does.
With much of the music coming from Trigger himself alongside the mixing and production, it allows him to realise the vision for the album and makes it one of the most cohesive albums I’ve heard in a long time. Lyrically, it’s an album of empowerment, encouraging people to overcome their hurdles be it personal demons, setbacks or the people in this world who gain their own personal satisfaction from your misfortune.
Time of the Titans is an incredibly tight album, one which could speak to a very specific audience. However, its uplifting lyrics are reminiscent of Black Veil Brides and My Chemical Romance. While Daniel Trigger’s music may sound nothing like those incredibly divisive bands, the lyrical content is largely the same. Bringing a melodic slant to your usual modern influences is inspired. To make a grittier version of what is a rather niche part of rock is something you don’t hear all that often – if ever.
As such, it may not be your thing but at the very least, go buy the album when it’s out and give it a shot, you may discover something new. And if you don’t; that’s fine, at least your hard-earned cash isn’t squandered since it’ll land in the hands of three great causes.
Time of the Titans is released on 29th April with all proceeds split between Marie Curie Cancer Care, Dementia UK and the Diana Award Anti-Bullying Campaign.
Daniel Trigger: official | facebook | twitter | soundcloud | reverbnation | bandcamp
