Since was marketed largely on the looks of lead singer , and since their sleazy rockers and lovelorn cover the same old territory, the band's high-quality musicianship tended to get overlooked. Guitarist earned wide praise from other musicians, and he, ex- drummer , and keyboardist bring a distinct influence to many of the tunes on . Even if the lyrics are standard issue, the album is impeccably composed, crafted, and played, with melodies, riffs, and guitar solos taking off in unexpected directions and keeping the listener slightly off balance -- no easy task in the cookie-cutter genre. The only misstep is an overdone, tight-assed, totally misguided recasting of Otherwise, is a surprisingly accomplished debut. ~ Steve Huey