Neon Trees are not new kids on the block. The quartet first appeared on radars a decade ago. At the time they were viewed as a response to the popularity of The Killers. Boasting dynamic style and an addictive, yet credible sound, the group were heralded for the perfection that was their debut single ‘Animal’ – which still remains to date their biggest UK hit, having landed at #40 back in 2010 with the lead track from their very long-awaited debut album Habits. Having also played the credi-card for their more playful, hook driven sophomore release Picture Show back in 2012, it became apparent with the release of single ‘Sleeping With A Friend’ earlier this year, that the band were fully prepared to break into more colourful terrain. Alas, with the title Pop Psychology it is little surprise that their latest album signals their arrival into the fully fledged radio friendly world. Having made the transition from cool outsiders to mainstream stars, have the group sold out on the unique qualities that made them who they are?

Far from it. For all those Neon Trees fans out there who may have been wondering whether this was the end of their favourite foursome, those fears can be quashed in an instant. Neon Trees are everything and more than they used to be. Unafraid of pushing the boundaries, the group are more forthright than ever. Though they may now find themselves shelved in certain collections next to One Direction, they feel no need to reduce the punch that they pack.

Despite its more mainstream sensibilities, Pop Psychology is as intelligent and eloquent as its predecessors. With the band having gone through a lot of personal changes between Picture Show and Pop Pyschology, it is pleasing to see that the latter is delivered with more of an honest undertone than its predecessor. While Picture Show was a stunning collection, it felt as if the listener was simply an observer, whereas Pop Psychology forges a connection with their listener’s inner core. With drummer Elaine Bradley now a Mum and vocalist Tyler Glenn now openly gay, the group find themselves with lots to explore.

Glenn’s sexuality is worn on his sleeve. With a lot of Pop Psychology seeing Glenn coming to terms with his identity in the public eye, most notably on the dark ‘Voices In The Hall’, the material contained within its walls is truly reflective of the album’s title. For while Glenn has clearly used the album’s writing process as a form of therapy, he has never overlooked the fact that he is writing to entertain and engage – a feat which he achieves time and again on the record.

Tyler Glenn is something of a revelation. A gay popstar who is willing to write love songs openly about the man he has feelings for, while at the same time exploring the struggle he has with his own sexuality. Pop Psychology should not be labelled a gay album, for it certainly has much broader appeal and connection, but it most certainly is one of the most inspirational collections of songs from a gay perspective.

From the infectious drive of album opener ‘Love In The 21st Century’ through to the blustery ‘Teenager In Love’ and peppy closer ‘First Things First’, Neon Trees have crafted an album that is relevant and meaningful to a generation of music fans who want a balance of pop fun and heartfelt lyrics.

Standout Tracks: ‘First Things First’ / ‘Sleeping With A Friend’

Pop Psychology is available from Amazon and iTunes.