Trophy Eyes’ third album forsakes their hardcore past for a brighter mixture of punk, rock, and pop. For all the album's softer moments, however, frontman John Floreani’s reflections on his history of drug abuse and violence make for a harrowing lyrical ride. After moving from Australia to Texas, he found that the physical and mental solace of his new surroundings provided him with a greater perspective on his past. The confessions continue with themes of addiction and self-loathing (“More Like You”), suicide (“Something Bigger Than This”), and the passing of youth (“Autumn”), making The American Dream the most personal and solemn Trophy Eyes album yet.