Everclear — In A Different Light

When I was younger, I'd watch MuchMusic waiting for videos of songs I liked to come on so I could record them on blank VCR tapes. I came across one of these tapes while moving a couple years ago and watched it for fun. Everclear's "Wonderful" must have been on there at least five or six times.

Nine years later, the band have released In A Different Light, a collection of mostly older tracks stripped down in simpler, acoustic forms, but with the same pop sensibilities and intrigue that they've always had. Two new tracks also make an appearance.

"At The End Of The Day" fits in well with the chill vibe of the record, with some gospel-esque female backing singers, a hushed intensity and one catchy bridge thrown in for good measure. "Here Comes The Darkness" is another slower track, influenced by folk and smooth rock. This is the better of the two, a catchy yet mysterious track seemingly about going to hell.

The record's a fun mix of the old with the promise of the new. It includes hits like "Wonderful," "Santa Monica," "I Will Buy You A New Life" and "Rock Star," but is missing "Volvo Driving Soccer Mom." How could you leave that one out, dudes?

I'm pretty sure that one was VHS-worthy, too, but maybe its subject matter cuts too close to home now that Everclear are entering their unplugged years.

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