John Little

When I criticize newer Weezer albums, I often get told by others that I am only angry that they are not just putting out carbon copies of the Blue Album and Pinkerton. However, that evidently is not the case, as this album sees Weezer take a big left turn by exploring baroque pop, and they hit it out of the park. The album has great melodies and gorgeous, lush instrumentals (see: "Numbers," "All My Favorite Songs"). The only thing that dings this album is that the lyrics are less good than other Weezer outings in some areas. This album is way better than it had any right to be, and it is one of my favorite things released this year. Give it a spin.

This is the album that makes me feel the most happy. It is absolutely brimming with personality, whether it is the nerdy lyrics on "In the Garage," the acoustic riff at the beginning of "The World Has Turned," or the drum fills on "No One Else." Think of the Beach Boys mixed with Pixies. Damn good album and certainly one of the best debut albums of all time - not a wasted moment. Give it a spin.

Their most mediocre album to somehow have a cult following. "Run Away" is good, I guess. If you want to hear Michael Cera play the mandolin on a Weezer album, this is for you (mandolins are great, though). Also, album covers are important.

Haunting, melancholy, beautiful. My favorite album. Highlights: "Find the River," "Try Not to Breathe," "Nightswimming"