The songs are easygoing and moderately soft. They're never too rough around the edges, but then again they're not too light. Except for "Chandeliers," a very intricate singer/songwriter number that comes off very quiet. Then there is "Charmed," a very up-tempo pop number full of hooks, energy, and more hooks. The lyrics are even worth singing along with, as they might be semi-personal, but are also universally relate-able to your personal life. Here is a number you can tap your feet too, sing along with, or just sit back and absorb.

A few times the pace of the album gets stuck in a mediocre pop-rock groove, but then there are the moments that help break the band out of this world and take them up to a level or brilliant hooks, clever lyrics, and seemingly gentle beats that are still able to knock you off your feet. I'll give this album a B+.

My Friend Stephanie: All The Pieces

My Hotel Year: The Composition of Ending and Phrasing

[Issue Sixteen // January-February 1999]