nosmiles agrees: No, it's not Veruca Salt. But the last Veruca Salt album wasn't Veruca Salt either. This is Nina Gordon. I think it's wonderful that her solo album is not just her doing what she used to do, except with studio musicians. Solo projects are to do something different. To lose stigmas and do what you want to do. Nina does just that.

Even if the music is Adult Alternative/Pop it's damn good. Unfortunatley, the fist single of this album was the title track. I cannot be the only one who confuses that tune with Sarah McLachlan's Building A Mystery. They're practically the same. Even though the rest of the album is similar to the single, the rest is much better.

The songs are not quite stuck-in-your-head catchy, but they are catchy. Enough for repetition at least. Suprisingly, with such a pop record, there is plenty of differentiation between each song without a loss of cohesiveness. Of course many are sappy love songs ("Now I Can Die", "2003") but the lyrics aren't childish as are most love songs. By trying to break out her roots in "Badway," Nina comes off as trying too hard - this is the only song that sounds forced though. And the chorus makes up for the verses anyway.

Luckily for listeners, the music is real. Even if Nina isn't playing the instruments, they are there and they sound decent. There's no artsy piano or background beats. Just simple hooks and melodies that blend in lovely with Nina's vocals.

It's not neccessary to know Veruca Salt (which sadly I'm sure many don't) in order to enjoy this album. In fact, im sure stringent VS fans are upset at the change. However, change is for the good and Nina Gordon's experience and talent shines through this solo debut in ways that Vanessa Carlton could dream of.

Best Aspect: Change isn't always bad
Worst Aspect: Maybe a tad forced
Yay: Now I Can Die, Horses In The City
Nay: Too Slow To Ride, The End Of The World
The hits: Tonight And The Rest Of My Life
Similar: Juliana Hatfield
Style: Good female pop