The review of Stone Temple Pilots' 2018 self-titled album discusses the band's return with a new singer, Jeff Gutt, following the deaths of their iconic lead singers Scott Weiland and Chester Bennington. The review addresses the dilemma STP faced in choosing a replacement: whether to find someone completely different or someone who resembled Weiland’s distinctive voice. The band chose the latter, opting for Gutt, who sounds very similar to Weiland, which the reviewer sees as both a strength and a weakness.
While the album has strong musical moments, the review criticizes Gutt's attempt to emulate Weiland too closely, leading to comparisons that are difficult to live up to. The reviewer expresses a preference for a new vocalist with a unique identity, rather than one who sounds like a tribute to the late frontman. That said, some songs, like "Meadows" and "The Art of Letting Go," stand out for their emotional depth, with Gutt capturing the essence of Weiland while still adding some of his own charm.
The album features several solid tracks, including the heavy rockers "Roll Me Under" and "Six Eight," along with songs like "Middle of Nowhere," "Never Enough," and "Guilty," which showcase the band's signature sound. However, other tracks fall flat, either due to weak songwriting or vocals that lack power. The review also criticizes the band's decision to produce the album themselves, as it led to missed opportunities for outside input, which could have enhanced the overall quality.
Overall, the album is seen as a mixed bag—musically strong in parts but inconsistent and ultimately a bit disappointing in others. The reviewer’s primary concern is that STP missed the chance to reinvent themselves with a fresh voice, instead opting to recreate the past.
