I must admit, I was damn surprised with The Audition's sophomore release entitled Champion.  Honestly, the band's first endeavor, Controversy Loves Company did not really do it for me, but wow, The Audition have really stepped it up.

Maturity is the one word in the music business that either makes people cringe or sit at the edge of their seats in anticipation.  With Champion, everything from the vocals to the musicianship has grown.  I do hear a little Panic! At the Disco inspired vocals and eclectic additives, but it never sounds identical.  The Audition have individualized themselves.

"Basbhat" is an anthemic, pop-driven track, which serves as a great opener to the record.  Songs like "Heaven For the Weather" and "Hard to Sell" are dance inspired tracks, guaranteed to get the hips moving, while "Edinboro" and "Shady Business" are simply straight up, good rock songs.

Ultimately, Champion is a great listen.  Here's to a band that obviously draws from other popular styles, but packages it in their own shell.  I give Champion a 7.5 (out of 10).   
 

Suggested Listening: "Heaven For the Weather" and "Shady Business"