This sounds like the sort of music that belongs in a big city. It's full of noise and excitement and no small dose of tension as well. The new wave sounding opener "Out here in the sun" is perfectly poised to get the listener's attention. Stephanie Saunders' vocals provide a good contrast to lead singer Chris Farrell's voice. They have an alchemy not seen since Black Francis and Kim Deal sparred with each other in the Pixies. It's a pity Saunders isn't used more on the album.
The pensive "A Perfect Periwinkle Blue" has great use of harmonica and woozy harmonies. "Manic Depressive (Without The Manic)" is a catchy song on a difficult subject. It continues to be a well-conceived modern rock record. Not a masterpiece exactly but full of life and good intentions. It's an album that's well worth investigating.
