Drops of Jupiter

For every truly original band, there are a million others who scurry in their wake, consciously or unconsciously adhering to the flag-bearer’s blueprint.

Alas, Train are such a band. Diluted elements of Counting Crows, Matchbox 20 and Live are evident throughout their second album – from the Recovering The Satellites-style lyrics on the title track (a hit single in the US) to the heartfelt, anthemic tones of their lead singer, Pat Monahan.

That doesn’t make them awful, mind. They play their instruments with verve and precision, and write lyrics that are occasionally lovely. When it comes to their verses, they often hit upon hooks which are sparse, effective and verging on funky.

All too soon, though, the listener is reminded of their equally blatant commercial streak. On far too many of the eleven tracks, once the chorus hits, every string is pulled and vocal cord twanged in Train’s efforts to locate the ultimate singalong chorus.

More songs like the subtle, downbeat closer ‘Mississippi’ would have helped their cause no end.

Accomplished, but bland.