Pop rock group The Script released its long awaited album, “Freedom Child,” on Friday, Sept. 1. This album covers subject matters from politics to personal relationships. The wide range of topics help make this more widely received among The Script’s fan base because everyone can find something to love.

The first of the two singles was released on June 16. “Written In The Scars” is an uplifting song about how the struggles individuals face in life shape them as people. This song encourages listeners to look for the light at the end of the tunnel and stay optimistic. In the chorus, singer Danny O’Donoghue says “If it’s hurting right now, it’s gonna make us who we are, it’s written in the scars,” which is meant to reassure the audience pain won’t last forever.

On Aug. 30, The Script released the second single for its new album. “Love Not Lovers” is a cautionary tale, warning an unknown listener that she needs to be patient and take it slow when looking to find love because not everyone has good intentions. Toward the end of the song, the message changes to be more uplifting than cautious. The lines “I know that it feels like love’s on the run, but your day will come” are repeated, reassuring listeners that one day they will find true love.

The politically charged song and title track “Freedom Child” focuses on not letting anyone or anything take away the citizens’ rights. Combined with a smooth background of guitar and piano, this song is easy to listen to. “Divided States Of America” is an empowering anthem that promotes unity among the people regardless of social or political backgrounds. This song definitely has the strongest message of the entire album, calling its listeners to stand together against oppression and terrorism instead of battling amongst themselves.

The song “Arms Open” is a smooth pop ballad reassuring someone close to the narrator that they can always rely on him when they’re in need. “Deliverance” tells the story of the narrator’s need for forgiveness from someone. Its bass-heavy background pairs surprisingly well with the vocals, especially in the chorus.

Adventure-themed songs “Rock The World” and “Wonders” speak about living life to the fullest while you still can. Both of these songs feature strong choruses that effectively express the feelings of freedom and living in the moment that are conveyed in the lyrics.

“Mad Love” speaks about a volatile relationship that the narrator just can’t seem to let go of. Toward the end of the song, a mantra enters the background. One of the lines in the mantra, “we love the drama,” shows the narrator just can’t get enough of this relationship, no matter how toxic it may be.

“Eden,” however, shows a much more romantic outlook on relationships, conveying that the narrator has finally found true happiness in his current relationship and he doesn’t see himself leaving any time soon. This song contains many references to the Bible and Christianity in general with the Garden of Eden, Heaven and salvation being mentioned multiple times. The violin line in the background matches the beat amazingly well and compliments the song.

“Freedom Child” brought a fresh, unique sound to The Script. At first, many fans expressed concerns via social media regarding the newer, pop influenced sound on this album, mainly because it strays so far from The Script’s indie rock roots. Although the songs differ in their topics and most are unique in sound, many follow a set format with minimal variation in the general structure of the songs. This can feel a bit repetitive despite the variety of topics, keys and background music.