's second album, like their first, is dominated by gorgeous harmonies and sweeping string arrangements. But it's also a smidge more lively than their self-titled debut -- 's guitars are allowed let loose a little more frequently, and the comparatively energetic percussion incorporates a bit of Latin spice. The first single, combines a typically intense, soaring chorus with an unusually lighthearted jam featuring harmonica and funky guitar riffs. But the meat and potatoes of are still the achingly poignant melodies, tunes so emotionally stoked one can't help but wish to hear them more clearly, or feel them more fully. That can be a bit exhausting after repeated listens, and the keyboard-heavy arrangements are occasionally overwrought, but in proper doses there is no catharsis like . The band broke up after touring in support of this album. Perhaps the next project for tunesmith and his lyricist/playwright wife, , should involve musical theater. These larger-than-life (and the big voice of lead singer ) would suit the stage well, and would be considerably more compelling than much of the stuff on Broadway. ~ Darryl Cater