Trench (2018) - Twenty One Pilots

Released on October 5, 2018, Trench is the fifth studio album by Twenty One Pilots, marking a significant shift in both sound and storytelling. Following the massive success of Blurryface, this album expands their sonic palette with a mix of alternative rock, hip-hop, and electronic influences, while diving deeper into conceptual world-building. The album introduces listeners to Dema, a fictional city symbolizing oppression, and the Banditos, a rebel group fighting for freedom. Lyrically, Trench explores mental health, identity, escape, and the struggle for autonomy—all wrapped in a mysterious and immersive narrative.

Tracklist

1. Jumpsuit
2. Levitate
3. Morph
4. My Blood
5. Chlorine
6. Smithereens
7. Neon Gravestones
8. The Hype
9. Nico and the Niners
10. Cut My Lip
11. Bandito
12. Pet Cheetah
13. Legend
14. Leave the City

The album opens with "Jumpsuit," an explosive and brooding track that sets the tone for Trench. Driven by a gritty bassline and Tyler Joseph’s urgent vocals, it captures the tension between being trapped by expectations and the desire to break free. The jumpsuit becomes a symbol of protection against the oppressive forces of Dema, and the song’s abrupt shifts between soft, haunting verses and aggressive choruses mirror the emotional battle between vulnerability and defiance.

"Levitate" follows seamlessly, offering a minimalist soundscape where Joseph delivers rapid-fire verses over a tense, looped beat. It’s a declaration of rising above challenges while subtly referencing the Banditos' resistance. The track’s sparse yet hypnotic production enhances its intensity, while the lyrics hint at the constant pressure to maintain composure under scrutiny.

"Morph" introduces a smoother, more funk-infused groove, masking deeper themes of identity and transformation. Joseph reflects on mortality and the idea of constantly changing to survive. The track’s playful yet eerie tone underscores the album’s recurring question: Who am I beneath the surface?

A standout moment arrives with "My Blood," a soulful and anthemic track about loyalty and unwavering support. Its warm, shimmering production contrasts with the album’s darker themes, offering a glimmer of hope. This track also signals a personal plea—being there for someone, even in their darkest moments.

The album’s thematic depth intensifies with "Chlorine," a song that metaphorically explores the idea of using pain to cleanse and create. The melodic hooks and atmospheric production belie its deeper meditation on self-destructive tendencies and the paradox of healing through suffering. Joseph’s voice shifts from soft vulnerability to raw intensity, reflecting the emotional rollercoaster of confronting inner demons.

"Neon Gravestones" is one of the album’s most poignant and reflective tracks. It addresses society’s glorification of death and questions how mental illness and tragedy are sensationalized. With sparse piano melodies and a somber delivery, the song challenges listeners to rethink how we treat those struggling with mental health, urging a shift toward life and resilience.

In contrast, "The Hype" offers an uplifting, guitar-driven reprieve. It encourages perseverance despite external judgment and self-doubt. The optimistic tone and catchy chorus reinforce the album’s core message—even when things seem overwhelming, don’t lose yourself.

"Nico and the Niners" brings listeners deeper into the lore of Dema, introducing Nico, a figure representing control and oppression. With a laid-back, reggae-inspired rhythm, the track narrates the Banditos' rebellion and their belief in escaping conformity. It’s a defiant anthem wrapped in an intricate storyline, blending mythology with personal struggle.

The journey through Trench grows more introspective with "Cut My Lip," a testament to persistence through pain. The subdued, shimmering production complements lyrics about enduring hardship, while Joseph’s reflective tone suggests that even when wounded, the will to survive remains.

The title-defining track "Bandito" serves as a turning point in the narrative. It’s a slow-burning, introspective piece where Joseph aligns himself with the rebels. The haunting atmosphere and lyrics about seeking freedom from Dema reflect the album’s central metaphor—escaping mental and societal cages.

As the album nears its conclusion, "Pet Cheetah" breaks the mold with glitchy, experimental production and sharp, aggressive flows. It symbolizes the creative process as both a burden and a release, reflecting Joseph’s struggles with fame and artistic expression.

The emotional climax arrives with "Legend," a deeply personal tribute to Joseph’s late grandfather. Its upbeat, almost celebratory tone contrasts with the sorrow beneath, offering a touching farewell while expressing gratitude and love.

The closing track, "Leave the City," is a soft, contemplative farewell. It captures the struggle of trying to escape Dema while acknowledging that the journey isn’t over. The haunting piano and Joseph’s subdued vocals convey a lingering sense of hope amid uncertainty—the battle may not be finished, but survival is still possible.

Trench is a masterclass in blending personal vulnerability with grand narrative. It pushes Twenty One Pilots’ sound into new, ambitious territory while staying grounded in themes that resonate with listeners—mental health, identity, and the ongoing fight for freedom. The album is both a journey through a fictional world and a deeply human exploration of inner turmoil.