On its second release, Focus, Birdmen of Alcatraz creates a diverse blend of hard rock and hip-hop that struggles at times to break out and, in the end, falls short of fulfilling its potential. In a music scene personified by a stand-up-and-fight mentality, Birdmen unfortunately seems to leave itself open for some serious sucker punches.

The band tries to remain consistent throughout the disc. However, a nagging feeling that it is holding back pervades throughout. By leaving itself more room for experimentation, the group may reach the potential that seems to just evade it.

The two best tracks on the album, Pearl and Gotta Move to the Groove, Part 1, are infectious skate tunes, great for raging in the pool or the pit. The Red Hot Chili Pepper/Fishbone influence is unmistakable with Birdmen bassist Steve Wolf popping the strings in a fashion Chili Pepper bassist Flea would be proud of. One Step and Brother also are good tunes. Well-paced and driving, these songs give a strong glimpse of what Birdmen could be.

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Songwriting leaves the most to be desired from Birdmen, catering more to a teenager searching for an identity rather than intelligent and creative storytelling. While the ideas behind the songs are solid, some just fail to say anything. Arguably, the best attempt at creative bitterness, Brother, rips on all those we go out of our way to try and help out who invariably turn around and stab us in the back.

All in all, Focus is a fun album best suited for a day hammering the half-pipe or cement-surfing your neighbor’s pool. While not entirely overpowering, Birdmen is able to create a somewhat consistent mood supported by good time keeping and funky backbeats. C+