S.C.I.E.N.C.E.

While the press and critics jumped over the sounds of Korn, Rage Against the Machine, and Limp Bizkit, Incubus quietly toured in support of S.C.I.E.N.C.E., their first major-label LP. Incubus' hip-hop influences come from their DJ and bassist instead of their singer. Brandon Boyd's vocals hit every range from quiet whispers to funk-styled rants to hard rock screams. He also adds percussion with a bongo on a few songs (and in concert its a strange sight for such a heavy band). Boyd's demeanor in concert and record is laid back and free flowing. There's no anger surrounding his lyrics or his singing. "New Skin" adds a lot of funk to modern heavy metal while "Summer Romance (Anti-Gravity Love Song)" is a spacy dance ballad. The numerous styles on the album don't always blend perfectly, but they create a solid sound that defines the band. Incubus also manages to make their songs upbeat and danceable as well as tunes to headbang to. An admirable feat in a genre that tends to reward decibel levels instead of quality. ~ David Thomas