It's always interesting when a massive rock band like Hinder take time out of their busy schedules to put out an acoustic EP. Especially when it seeks to cover as much ground as Stripped. Despite featuring a mere six songs, the band crosses a variety of genres, from honky tonk to pop punk and it makes for a fun little listen coming from a group best known for songs like 'Lips Of An Angel' and 'Get Stoned.' Honest and to the point – Stripped strives to be the perfect example of what an acoustic EP should be.
There is something almost cleansing about Stripped. The way that it presents itself, with all of its polish an gentle refinery is somehow reassuring. That being said – at times the layers of production actually pull away from the honesty. Though the band might be trying to conjure up an image of recording in their bedrooms on a tiny mic you quickly realize that this is very much a big studio affair. That's fine because Hinder is very much a big studio band, it just can make the music feel a little less genuine.
In terms of execution Hinder is flawless, Stripped simply risks its soul periodically. When all is said and done though – this was a calculated move from a band who have much of the rock world in thrall. The way that they fight forward with their distinct and tightly refined approach on Stripped is going to make fans of the band come back again and again. Meanwhile, I feel that the uninitiated are certainly going to find something to appreciate here, and the record is short enough to merit multiple spins from anyone who loves acoustic rock that strives for purity.
Score: 7/10
