America Smith

February 1 - 8, 1 9 9 6

*1/2 America Smith

DANCE WITH YOUR GHOST

(Callner Music)

From this album's opening "Life Story," the music and lyrics are as generic as the band's name. When singer Paul Knowles earnestly belts, "Walking into her life story, I don't see my name," you know not to expect enlightenment. The lyrics are just as banal on "Old Man Isn't Laughing," "Religion Water," "Eyes of God," and the strangely poignant "Chevy." And the music is just as cliché'd. Behind a bland, lead electric guitar, same-sounding verses, choruses, and guitar solos repeat ad nauseam, making the tracks practically indistinguishable. Sometimes the band throws in acoustic guitar; hey, it worked for Hootie. To be fair, there are a few catchy hooks, and the four-member line-up is tight enough to keep much of Dance with Your Ghost listenable. It's rock music that won't bother you if it's playing in the background. Just don't think about it.

-- Mark Bazer