This came out in 2002 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
Sure, rock music has always been formulaic. But these days, it’s getting downright scientific. Some of today’s alterna-metal acts seem put together with all the calculation of a quadratic equation. Here’s how this one breaks down:
Bluesy post-grunge pop-rock x (earnest confessional lyrics + yelping vocals) + anthemic choruses + (shaggy haircuts + bad posture – muscles) = Nickelback – Oedipus complex + nerd-rock appeal.
