Why it rocks: New York-based Brand New has finally appeased the masses with the release of its third album. The major-label (Interscope) debut for the band, “The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me” (“TDAGARIM”) has a more evolved sound both musically and lyrically from the band’s previous albums. Brand New experiments with various sounds on the record: eerie-sounding chorus backing the vocals in “Degausser,” an up-tempo, faster-paced rhythm in “The Archers Bows Have Broken” and a gloomy-sounding ballad in “Jesus Christ.” “TDAGARIM” picks up where sophomore album “Deja Entendu” left off, with more evidence of Brand New’s angst and frustration. The band has also developed a heavier sound heard throughout “TDAGARIM.” Unlike past records, it has successfully complemented the hopeless feelings with dark music. Though the music has a more hollow sound it will still have you tapping your feet and singing along like their past releases. The emotionally-driven lyrics also remain a consistent component of Brand New. Remaining loyal to the band’s desire to not have any CD sound like another, “TDAGARIM” is the right step in a unique direction for Brand New.

Our rating (out of five): * * * *