Universal Freak

A solid rock/pop recording by this West Coast band that offers what could be a classic hit with opener "Bring Me Something," an easy inclusion to any summer soundtrack. The album is full of melody and harmonies and an occasional jam, à la I Mother Earth ("Garden's Edge"). Most of the music is bright without the sap, and I think I hear the ghost of Trooper's Ra McGuire in vocalist Paul D'Eath. Nothing really new here to add to the rock format, but some good songs to groove to. It's also nice to hear some bands are still influenced by Jane's Addiction ("Blow Up Doll").