We live in a very strange time. Some bands try to stay relevant with a revamped lineup. Though most of the time, the new lineup just doesn’t cut it. A great example of this occurred a couple years back when, Stone Temple Pilots recruited Linkin Park’s Chester Bennington to front the band after they fired Scott Weiland. The band with Chester made a surprise appearance at a KROQ radio festival, and left many in the crowd wondering “What the hell?” This utterly head-scratcher idea was not just a bad idea but, it also side-tracked the legacy of STP. Granted Scott was struggling again with his demons but, come on, picking Chester is like the equivalent of picking Alvin form Alvin and the Chipmunks to be the singer. The band would put out a terrible EP called High Rise, and they would tour, playing to half empty venues and mildly curious fans. I’m sure there were people out there that dug on it, but seriously, how can this be called Stone Temple Pilots without Scott?

Scott is no longer with us but, he left quite an impact on not the rock world but music in general. His lyrics, melodies and voice will always be remembered. I had hoped that STP and Scott would have one more chance at it before he died but, that didn’t come to fruition.

EDIT: I have since re-listened to this album. And while it’s not the best STP can offer, it’s a really decent part of the band’s history and catalog. A lot of the things we know and love about STP are in the music and melodies. This really wasn’t as bad as I said at first. The initial shock of it sure got the best of me. And no, Chester doesn’t sound like Alvin. That was just me being frustrated and trying to be funny. Give this EP a chance and see what it does for you.

Stone Temple Pilots with Chester Bennington- High Rise:

 

STP with Chester LIVE: