Backup Planet - Reactions (2017)

Following up their 2015 debut, Element, Nashville-based quartet Backup Planet experienced a tough year, working through a crash that destroyed their touring van and equipment, as well as the loss of a close friend and even a burglary. But the band used the trials to forge their sophomore album, Reactions, continuing their penchant for soaring, expansive music, blending rock, funk, jamtronica and more. On the album, Backup Planet voice some frustrations over the unpredictable nature of their chosen profession through songs like "Different Life," imagining what a more stable calling might provide. These four musicians clearly love what they do, however, delivering euphoric tunes like the album's title track, which rides a heavy and pulsing riff into a spacey and piercing guitar solo climax, and "Earth as a Dream," which presents one of the band's catchier choruses. "Destination Earth" blends a funk-fueled verse with an arena-rock refrain, exhibiting the band's ability and willingness to blend genres even in the same song. While a few of the more pop-influenced moments on the record, such as the soft acoustic intro to "Looking Up," can seem a bit out of place, it all comes as a result of Backup Planet's exploratory spirit. This also fuels them when they are at their best, like on the bouncy, Chili Peppers-esque funk of "Sublimation," boasting a peak that features some of the best guitar work and driving drums on the entire album.