(Arista)
The Crash Test Dummies did not rush to follow up on their five and a half million selling album God Shuffled His Feet. Nearly three years have passed since that album's release, and two and a half years since the smash success of "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm". A long tour and a well deserved break were in between, and now, close to being forgotten, they are back ("finally!" some will say, "oh no, not again!" others) with A Worm's Life.
Right from the beginning, there is a positive contrast compared to God Shuffled His Feet, which is especially noticeable on a good stereo. While the previous album sounded quite flat and muddy over large parts, their sound has gained much clearer contours on the new one. Only their live shows had previously demonstrated that they are a surprisingly skilled band, and now this also shows on record. There are distinctive, dry drums, bouncy bass lines, and some high class guitar work. The whole sound has gotten a touch heavier and more intense. One highlight track on the album is "My Enemies", which has a driving beat, some crunchy short guitar solos, and electronically processed vocals in the chorus.
Despite a more rock oriented sound, the Crash Test Dummies have of course not become anarchists. There are still some beautiful, slow ballads, like the title track, and Brad Roberts' absolutely unique baritone remains the central part of the songs. And again, the lyrics prove that Mr. Roberts is not a dummy at all, but studied literature and philosophy. An instant killer like "Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm" is not in sight, but tracks like the opening "Over Achiever" certainly have potential.
Whether it will sell as much as God Shuffled His Feet remains questionable, but from a musical point of view, A Worm's Life is a clear step forward for the Crash Test Dummies. Instead of falling for the temptation of repeating what worked in the past, they gain substance and go for a more variable sound. This album will certainly not start a musical revolution, but it's highly enjoyable, mellow rock music.
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