Five for Fighting’s new album titled Bookmarks is a step backward from the positive direction their last album Slice was going.

Released on Sept. 17, the album is described as “contemporary adult pop, inspired by cultural changes in the American landscape.” But sadly, it comes across as a quickly thrown together album with little thought put into the lyrics of most of the songs. Many of the track’s choruses are just repetitive of the song title itself, including “She’s my Girl” and “You’ll Never Change.” It’s unfortunate that a band known for such great songs, including “100 years,” “Chances,” and “Superman,” weren’t able to pull through for a great album.

While some may have never enjoyed American singer/songwriter John Ondrasik’s one-of-a-kind vocals, I have personally been a fan of his popular hits. But Bookmarks almost plays off the strains in his voice, making him sound unappealing and almost annoying. Five For Fighting has always been known for their piano/guitar audio. However, most of their classic sound was thrown out the window with their struggle to sound more “pop radio.” Similar to bands like Train and Maroon 5, they have attempted to appeal to a pop audience, but unfortunately I predict they won’t be as successful with that transition. On the bright side, the song “Stand Up” isn’t half bad. The upbeat song is one I can see being played on the radio and being enjoyed by the masses.

Overall, the band’s sixth studio album was disappointing and didn’t leave a bookmark in my brain for music I want to listen to again.