DENIZEN originates from the southern coast of France, though you wouldn't be able to tell this from the traditional slab of Stoner / Heavy Rock that they serve up here. Their fourth album, "Troubled Waters", demonstrates the experience of the band that formed in 2003, and have played shows and toured in their native France, in addition to Spain and Portugal. However, the album sounds slightly generic, and lacks a certain edge and sense of danger that really acts as a kick of adrenaline in the Hard Rock field.

Having said this, with the opening track, DENIZEN actually offers up something unexpected and interesting in the form of some novel and original lyrics. "Teddy Bear" features the rather intense line "I want to be your teddy bear!". While amusing and enjoyable at a first listen, it's hard not to wonder how lyrics like this would be received by the wider Rock / Metal public at live shows and the like. It doesn't help that a lot of the vocals of Fabien Aletto are also buried in the rather muddy mix, and hard to make out at times.

Throughout the remainder of the album, the focus seems very much to be on big grooves and riffs. This is all well and good, but again, the quality of the production lets the band down, and reduces any sense of tightness and togetherness. An example of this is fourth track "The Waitress" (another title that suggests interesting lyrical content), where some really catchy guitar riffs are present, but far too hard to make out in the mix! It's a shame!

"Troubled Waters" is an album that feels significantly longer than it actually is (it only comes in at just over 39 minutes) - a sign that DENIZEN struggle to grip the listener, invigorate or emote. It's a shame to say that about a relatively long-running band who are doing what they enjoy, but unfortunately, it's the case here. Credit though should be given to their artwork, which is outstanding, and perhaps worth the price of the CD alone!