Rating: * (1 out of 4)

Availability: Widely Available

This is certainly a disappointment.

When I heard that the Monkees had recorded another reunion album, this time with Mike Nesmith, I was very excited. It turns out that I didn't have anything to be excited about. Mike Nesmith's music on the album is limited to two songs, one of which is an over-produced remake of his song from the Head soundtrack, "Circle Sky." Peter Tork, as well, has authorship credits on only two of the songs, "Run Away From Life" and "I Believe You," while Davy (or now "David") Jones has 2.5 credits and Mickey Dolenz racks up 6.5 credits (Jones and Dolenz share the credits for "You and I").

The problem with this mix, other than turning the album into the Mickey Dolenz show, is that the two musicians (Tork from the Village and Nesmith from Nashville) and the Musical Star (Jones from Oliver!) are given very little space in which to flex their musical muscle.

The most disturbing development is Dolenz's snarl, which is apparent in "Admiral Mike" (written by Mike Nesmith). Dolenz was probably most popular for his slyly vicious delivery on the classic "Stepping Stone," but the ready anger in his voice this time around is chilling. It is sad, however, that it could not be tempered with a little bit of sincerity. But, as I recall, Dolenz was never very big on sincerity.

The thing that disappoints me the most is the lackluster quality of so many of the songs, such as "You and I," which is an imminently forgettable pop tune, "Never Enough," which is also forgettable, and is only part of a roster that includes almost all the tracks on the album. The only really memorable tunes on the CD are the aforementioned "Admiral Mike" and "Regional Girl." Other than those two, the rest of the CD is one inferior remake and a handful of pseudo-oldies and jaded inspirational songs. Forget this album. I recommend saving your money for Rhino Records' reissues of their original albums (although I recommend you steer clear of Pool It! as well).

The opinions expressed in the above reviews are those of Glen Williams and may not represent the views of slac.com or any of its members. Compliments, complaints, and comments should be addressed to gandalf@tricon.net

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