The Harsh Light of Day Image
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 11
  2. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. Their third release has no apparent monster single like "The Way," but the recording as a whole contains a higher number of strong songs. It rocks harder, and the band's previously overpowering influences--most notably Elvis Costello--are now beautifully integrated into a more developed and identifiable sound.
  2. 60
    [I]f anything this album is less rock than the last one, while the droves of extra instruments are used more as decoration than as tools to create broad soundscapes.... Ultimately this album might be a step forward for Fastball, but they end up in essentially the same place.
  3. Traditionalist rock fans have got to be cheered by Fastball, a group plucky enough to take on teenage pop bands and rap-rock sensations with perky harmonies and piles of guitars. But in the end, songs like these shine brightest outside of the album context, as stand-alone songs coming out of the dashboard radio.

See all 11 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 4
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 4
  3. Negative: 0 out of 4
  1. JeffH
    10
    I think this album as a whole in better than All the Pain Money Can Buy. Funny how it fades away is one of the best songs I've heard. Whatever gets you one is a very nice finish to this seemless album. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  2. JeffH
    10
    I think this album as a whole in better than All the Pain Money Can Buy. Funny how it fades away is one of the best songs I've heard. Whatever gets you one is a very nice finish to this seemless album. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. JeffH
    10
    I think this album as a whole in better than All the Pain Money Can Buy. Funny how it fades away is one of the best songs I've heard. Whatever gets you one is a very nice finish to this seemless album. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes

See all 4 User Reviews

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