Scaled And Icy does, however, lack the consistency of a record like Blurryface, which delivered hit after hit without ever dropping the ball. The rather bizarre No Chances, for example, falls a little flat before emotional closer Redecorate. In a similar vein, lead single Shy Away presents a flaw of Scaled And Icy. It’s a fine song no doubt, and a more than competent take on twenty one pilots’ typical sound, but in the context of their lengthy catalogue of hit singles, it doesn’t, for instance, pack the ingenuity of the likes of Stressed Out or Ride. Perhaps it’s a harsh criticism, but for one of this generation’s most creative and mould-breaking acts, there are times on Scaled And Icy where things just feel a little safe.
Overall, though, Scaled And Icy is a good record which balances out the occasional underwhelming moment with flashes of brilliance that could only come from its creators. It’s a return to twenty one pilots’ roots, and one that, at times, demonstrates the unique songwriting flair that has been at the core of what Tyler and Josh do.
Verdict: 3/5
For fans of: Paramore, iDKHOW, grandson
Scaled And Icy is out now via Fueled By Ramen