In his sad, feeble voice Felix Costanza makes a toast on “The Bender”: “Here’s to the thought of having nothing to leave behind, not having to act civilized or make amends.” That hopeless attitude sustains throughout the album. Tales of drinking to get drunk, drunk driving, loss due to drinking and general pain and despair are told in a variety of country-tinged ways. A few songs rock happily, but most take on a more pensive, mid-to-slow tempo as pedal steel and slide guitar gently whine, wail and moan. Regardless of the delivery, each song offers compelling lyrics, arrangements and melodies. Exploded View is a strong and varied alternative country album that should please any Uncle Tupelo/Wilco/Son Volt fan.

- Dave Powers
(As posted 3/5/02 on 3wk.com)