7/10

After making a solid impression with their initial studio albums 'Momentary Lapse Of Happily' and 'Soft Spots' in 2015 and 2017 respectively, progressive alt-rock outfit Adult Mom were still struggling to make a firmer impact. Despite plenty of buzz and acclaim coming in for those releases, they still hadn't quite broken through to become one of the next big names on the scene. But now signed to the legendary punk label Epitaph, it finally feels like their fortunes are beginning to turn as they deliver their third full-length 'Driver', their most confident collection to date.

From the very start, it is clear where the band's head honcho Stevie Knipe's influences lie. While contemporary names like Julian Baker and Waxahatchee come to mind, it is clear that they are also looking to emulate the smooth and breezy sides of the 90s alt-rock sound as The Cranberries and Hole also seem to break their way through into their sound. It is this multi-generational and diverse direction that gives 'Driver' an unmistakably fresh feeling throughout, and showcases them as a bright and enjoyable group that are more than happy to wear their muses on their sleeve throughout.

While they still search for that breakthrough moment which will see them grow to the levels they deserve, 'Driver' shows us all that those days feel closer than ever. This new studio album is a strong and progressive listen, and creates a wonderfully uplifting experience from start to finish.