Morning View presents a calmer, more introspective side of Incubus, a noticeable shift from the heavier, more aggressive tones of their breakthrough album Make Yourself. Released in 2001, this album embraces a more atmospheric and experimental sound, incorporating lush instrumentation and a relaxed, almost meditative vibe that reflects its coastal California recording environment.

The band explores a diverse range of sonic textures, from smooth, downtempo rhythms to moments of driving energy. The guitar work is notably more subdued, leaning into slower, moodier riffs that emphasize melody over aggression. While there are still moments where Incubus flexes their rock muscles, much of Morning View is built on a foundation of spacey, laid-back grooves. The occasional use of acoustic guitar, while a welcome addition, sometimes feels a bit clunky in execution.

One of the strongest elements of the album is its bass work—thick, prominent, and deeply embedded in the band’s signature sound. The drumming, while not overly technical, serves the album well, complementing the more restrained compositions with tight, understated rhythms that enhance the overall ambiance.

Vocally, Brandon Boyd delivers a mix of strong, emotive performances and moments that feel slightly awkward. His usual smooth delivery is effective on most tracks, but when he experiments with different vocal approaches, it doesn’t always land seamlessly. His phrasing and flow occasionally feel a bit off, making certain sections stand out in a way that slightly disrupts the album’s otherwise cohesive atmosphere.

At nearly an hour in length, Morning View is a bit of a commitment, requiring time and patience to fully absorb its nuances. However, for those willing to immerse themselves in its dreamy, contemplative soundscapes, the album offers a rewarding and deeply atmospheric experience. While not without its imperfections, Morning View remains a strong entry in Incubus’s discography, showcasing their ability to evolve and experiment while maintaining their signature style.

With Morning View XXIII, Incubus revisits their 2001 classic Morning View, reimagining the album with modern production techniques, subtle instrumental tweaks, and reinterpreted vocal performances. While this rerecording successfully enhances some aspects of the original, it also introduces new challenges that make it a mixed experience for longtime fans.

One of the most notable improvements is the updated mixing and layering of instruments. Certain elements have been pushed forward or dialed back to create a more balanced soundscape, making some tracks feel fuller and more immersive. In some instances, additional instrumental sections have been incorporated to expand the compositions. These changes work well on some tracks, adding depth and richness to the arrangements. However, not all alterations enhance the listening experience—at times, the added material extends songs unnecessarily, making an already long album even longer. The opening track, for example, takes over a minute and a half to build up, which arguably diminishes its original impact.

Another challenge with Morning View XXIII is the natural evolution of Brandon Boyd’s voice. Over time, vocalists’ tones and abilities shift, and in this rerecording, there are moments where his performance lacks the same energy and dynamic range as the original. While this isn’t necessarily a flaw—artists adapt as they age—it is noticeable in certain sections, where he takes a different approach out of necessity.

That being said, the decision to rerecord Morning View wasn’t just a creative one—it also serves a practical purpose. Rerecordings allow artists to reclaim ownership of their music and receive a greater share of revenue, making this release a strategic and financially beneficial move. Additionally, nostalgia plays a huge role in fan engagement, and revisiting Morning View offers both the band and their audience a chance to celebrate a defining moment in their career.

Is Morning View XXIII better than the original? No. But it does serve a meaningful purpose. While it may not replace the original in fans’ hearts, it offers a fresh perspective on a beloved album, highlighting both the band’s evolution and their continued appreciation for their legacy.