"Cinnamon Anderson" is the poster song for their hybrid sound: It's a spunky, quirky new wave ditty that bounces and jumps around, fused with sweet pop tenderness, and a roaring rock charge. The hooks are crisp, the song is addictive, and the lyrics, though not the best, will bounce around in your head and have you singing along.

Then there are cuts like "Fetish" and "Eurocrush," which find the band struggling with identity. They don't know if they want to be a clever pop band (or rather, if they can pull it off) or another run-of-the-mill alt-rock act trying to get their shot at modern rock radio. And, in the confusion, the songs suffer.

The album's got a half-and-half feel. The songs are very hit and miss, too. You'll either hate the songs or find yourself really into them. The pop moments are decent to good, and the rock is energetic. Too bad it isn't more consistent. I'll give it a C.

Majority Rule & Positive State: split 7"

Make Up: Save Yourself

[Issue Twenty-Nine // March 2000]