Dublin pop/rock band The Script shines on “Written in the Scars,” the thoughtful second single from new album, ‘Freedom Child.’   

Irish pop/rock band The Script have been around for a while.  Consistently, Danny O’Donaghue and company have been releasing albums.  Their success stateside, has been moderate, with their singles performing better than their albums.  Nonetheless, they release their newest album, Freedom Child on September 1. “Rain” served as a promo single, released well in advance of the album. Second single “Written in the Scars” was issued closer to the album’s release date.

“Written in the Scars” opens in ambient fashion, before a superb rhythmic groove kicks in.  This provides an aggressive backdrop for Danny O’Donaghue to sing over.  His vocals are quick, rhythmic, and clear on the verses.  While he is singing, there’s a pop-rap sensibility, which certainly makes the frontman ‘hip.’ On the chorus, his vocals continue to shine, showcasing a dash of falsetto.  The chorus is catchy.

“If it’s hurting right now (right now, right now) / If it’s hurting right now (right now) / It’s gon’ make us who we are / it’s written in the scars…”

On the post-chorus, The Script ensures we know the song title by heart through repetition of the titular line.

“It’s written in the scars, yeah… / They make us who we are, who we are, are, who we are, yeah.”

All in all, the pros clearly outweigh the cons.  In addition to solid vocals and musical accompaniment, the concept of the song is thoughtful.  Essentially, O’Donaghue and The Script make a case that our scars – the hardships, the imperfections, and the adversity – make us stronger and more resilient in the end.  This isn’t brand new stuff mind you, but the message is pitch-perfect.

Final Thoughts 

The Script delivers another well-rounded song with “Written in the Scars.”  As aforementioned, “Written in the Scars” features solid vocals, solid production, and a thoughtful concept.  The wheel isn’t reinvented by the Irishmen, but it doesn’t need to be.  They flex like bosses.

The Script • Freedom Child • Columbia • Release: 9.1.17

Photo Credit: Columbia