New Pornographers

A.C. Newman and his multitalented crew continue to trade in huge hooks, but this time they veer away from their trademark three-minute pop tunes and try more textured song arrangements. The result is stunning, especially on the title track and the haunting "These Are the Fables."

Weightwise, think Hollies, with the lyrics dumber and the production too full of itself ("Use It," "Jackie, Dressed in Cobras"). (Grade - **)