Vision Valley (by The Vines, Alternative Rock)

The Vines is a guitar band with large doses of punk flavor. What they do isn't very complicated -- but unfortunately, it's not that great either. The band still sounds like they're trying to ape Nirvana to a certain extent, but mostly they just come across as angry. Much of that is legitimate, with singer Craig Nicholls' history of mental trouble. Still, parents may not appreciate watching their teens adopt the world-weary attitude apparent on VISION VALLEY. But it's that apathy and attitude that are likely to attract teen listeners; those who feel misunderstood will probably identify with the gloomy lyrics. The song "Nothin's Comin'" is pretty standard anti-society ranting, with lines like "I feel your death," and references to being sick of the human race.

Quality-wise, this CD doesn't come close to the Vines' 2002 debut, Highly Evolved. There's just not that much imagination here, musically or lyrically. Bottom line: This is bitter, cynical stuff, and nothing very groundbreaking or memorable.

Released on: April 4, 2006
Label: Capitol
Genre: Alternative Rock
Parental advisory: Yes