The Fray is back with its third studio album release, “Scars & Stories.” The Colorado natives stay true to their fans with this album. Listeners got a sneak peek with their first single, “Heartbeat,” which was released to the public in November. The single met expectations for many fans, bringing it to persistent radio play. “Heartbeat” was inspired by a recent trip to Rwanda by frontman, Isaac Slade, giving this track a deeper meaning than past singles.

“Scars & Stories” represents hardships that each of the band members went through these past few years. What I found most inspirational about this album was that the band admitted in a recent interview that they used part of the album’s budget to travel and see the world for inspiration with songwriting. The band wrote more than 70 songs, but cut it down to 12. The track “1961” represents The Berlin Wall, while “Munich” represents a particle collider in Switzerland, while other songs such as, “48 To Go” and “The Fighter,” represent Slade’s individual experiences.

If you’re a fan of the Fray’s past work, you will be very pleased with “Scars & Stories.” The alternative rock mixed with piano ballads are all present within this album, but knowing the band traveled the world for inspiration makes the lyrics that much more inspirational and enjoyable. This album does a great job reminding you of the important things to focus on in life.

Grade: A-

Recommended Tracks: “The Wind” & “Be Still“