*** Wilco

BEING THERE

(Reprise)

This double album goes far, far afield from the band's alterna-country roots in leader Jeff Tweedy's former band, Uncle Tupelo. It also clearly distinguishes them from former Tupelo bandmate Jay Farrar's Son Volt. Tracks like "Monday" and "Outtasite (Outta Mind)" are rockers of the Stonesy, foot-stomping variety, providing a link to Wilco's past. Ballads like "Far, Far Away," "Red-Eyed and Blue," and "(Was I) In Your Dreams" help keep the band a little bit country and establish piano as an important part of Wilco's sound. "Kingpin" will ensure the band continuing invitations to the HORDE tour. The leadoff track subtly sets the tone for the entire album; a piano ballad at heart, "Misunderstood" uses violin and drums in a way that takes the song in another direction entirely -- at times recalling the psychedelia of the ending from "Strawberry Fields Forever."

-- Michael Piantigini