Rhett Miller

Sporting a more controlled and reflective mood than in his first solo effort, Old 97's frontman Miller continues to display deft songwriting skills and solid musicianship. "My Valentine," "Meteor Showers" and "Question" all sparkle, as does the title track, which is an homage to his friend, the late Elliott Smith.

Miller betrays not a hint of hesitation on his second solo album. He thinks he belongs up there in front of that expert new band, singing or shouting whatever banality, profundity, or turn of phrase he's written down, and his level of enthusiasm combined with his level of craft will convince anyone who still likes, you know, songs. "Blame it on the moonlight/Blame it on plate tectonics"--either one is fine with him. But if you insist on knowing exactly what this believer believes in, it's both. (Grade - A-)