More of that lost little boy alternative stuff that makes most gag. I'll give the Eels credit in that they are capable of more than just simplistic three chord whine-a-lot stuff that pollutes the radios. Head Eels lost little boy E (that's right, his name is a letter and he fits the alternative image to a T) plays a variety of instruments, bassist Tommy also wields a french horn like no one's business, and drummer Butch (yeah, he looks like a frat boy) has a fine variety of rhythms and beats. So they are saved only by that. "Mental", with a its great bass line, is a winner and various other songs are actually worthwhile, but only to those who can tolerate the alternative mentality.

Review by John Chedsey

Review date: 06/1997

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