When compared to their last album (the 1996 debut Make Your Mama Proud), Fastball's latest release shows that the group is steadily improving and honing their AAA/roots-rock sound. The biggest difference between All the Pain Money Can Buy and their debut is that by spicing up their songs with... [+] Expand

When compared to their last album (the 1996 debut Make Your Mama Proud), Fastball's latest release shows that the group is steadily improving and honing their AAA/roots-rock sound. The biggest difference between All the Pain Money Can Buy and their debut is that by spicing up their songs with horns and classic synthesizer sounds, there is a greater musical variety. Produced by Julian Raymond and the band, the album's sound recalls the sound and approach of classic '70s rock, with the group stressing feel over precision. It doesn't stop the band from updating their vintage rock with '90s technology and sounds, however, as proven by the presence of a beat box in the album's opener, "The Way." One of the best tracks, the laidback and groovy "Which Way to the Top?," is a duet between Fastball's Miles Zuniga and female solo artist Poe. The horn section featured on the upbeat "G.O.D. (Good Old Days)" recalls early-period Chicago, while the band tackles the singer/songwriter genre of days past on "Out of My Head" with a mellow organ sound and introspective lyrics. If you like your classic rock with a little more grit and experimentation, Fastball is wholeheartedly recommended. [The Australian edition features a bonus CD.] ~ Greg Prato, All Music Guide [-] Collapse

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