1x*****, 7x****
In fairness I do have a few general criticisms, but all production-related. First, there the multiple guitars on top of each other make the production very cluttered, complicated by each guitar's similar sonic spectrum, though the individual playing is impressive all around. Unfortunately show-stopping riffs are frequently buried. Some vocals are really rough and would have been prefected in just a couple more takes. It's more rocknroll that way you say. Such is the tension between spontineity and polish. That said, "Bring It Back To Life"**** is just amazing from the angular opening riff screeching breakdown. Every music twist is absolutely essential and the energy just bowls you over. "Fall Song"**** is kind of a tarted-up Weezer with some triumphant vocals. "Comet Speed" is the only mis-step for me, with an atonal first act and its under-developed "all that you are is fallen from a star" chorus (good line tho). "City Streets"**** has an awkward flow, but the anthemic final minute is worth the price. The complex groove of "Training Wheels"**** propels the insistent theme like a diesel train, while the occasional ghostly piano and joyous quote from willy Wonka "Pure Imagination" are enjoyable touches. But none of these touches the creativity of the should-have-been emo classic "New Shoes"***** that takes a minute to gel, and while maybe the product of my memories of the time, the "do what makes you happier" bridge is the definite high point of the whole album. The eerie "Colussus On Cobblestone" and retro-pop "Roads & Radios" are interesting side trips, and "Recital"**** is a resigned love song worthy of Radiohead. But "My Dreams Come True"**** is a necessary last shot of adrenaline to bring the album full circle. Closer "Sing Song"**** combines Bjork, doo wop, and Radiohead, with a vicious solo worthy of Marc Ford (one of my favorite wasted lead guitarists) at 1:59 a bonus.
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