When closed the doors on , all signs seemed to point to a more direction for future solo releases; even the title of his first solo album, , implies a reaction against his reputation for well-crafted, highly melodic songs. However, from the opening track, the light and breezy puts all fears to rest. does dabble in experimentation -- most notably in the feedback and distorted vocals of the paranoid and the mild groove of -- but throughout, he shows restraint, tastefully incorporating more effects while staying true to his high melodic standard and meticulous songcraft. seems clearly freed from the restraints of being in a band, allowing him to try a lot of different ideas, from the sweeping to the instant classic of to more delicate atmospheric pieces like the title track, ultimately creating his most complex and diverse set to date. And though many of the songs take time to reveal their treasures, it's worth the effort. features some of 's best work yet, and in a nearly flawless catalog like his, that's quite impressive. ~ Chris Woodstra