Barenaked Ladies take a step forward: Are Men

The problem with the Barenaked Ladies is, that just when they look like they are ready to settle into their place as an average, straightforward, unremarkable pop band, they do something interesting. Are Men, the latest album in their now two decade long career, is just that: interesting.

Technically Are Men is not a new album. This collection is part of the same recording session as the lads' previous album Are Me. Though there are similarities between the two, Men is livelier, and more energetic than Are Me. Longtime fans will be glad to know that many of the tracks, "Running Out of Ink" for example, on the album are done in the simple, guitar driven, clever lyric style to which they've grown accustomed. What is interesting are the risks.

First, the band makes an unapologetic foray into politics with "Fun and Games". Scathing and clever, it is as brash a statement as any war protest song ever was, complete with New Orleans jazz band at the bridge. Also, Are Me implements musical layering and tonal work which is another first for Ed Robertson and the boys. Tracks such as "Another Spin" or "One and Only" combine vocal work and harmony reminiscent of Brian Wilson or late Beach Boys circa Pet Sounds or Endless Summer.

The latest album demonstrates that while the Barenaked Ladies are still a reasonably straightforward, pleasant rock group, they are capable of creating interesting, sometimes captivating works and are far from finished. Not a perfect album, but still worthwhile. - Recommended