The masses lost of track of Pearl Jam in the mid-90s. Somewhere between their anti-commercialism (refusing to do music videos) and experimentalism (1994’s Vitalogy was challenging but excellent, while 1996’s No Code was sloppy and forgettable), the mainstream stopped caring. They went on, however, to release two more solid albums (1998’s Yield and 2000’s Binaural) and establish themselves as one of rock’s best live acts with a dedicated, Deadhead-esque following.

Their self-titled, eighth studio album is similar to their seventh (2002’s Riot Act) in that it’s intriguing and respectable with attention-grabbing moments, but few songs leave a lasting impression. It rocks harder, rawer and faster than its predecessor with meaty riffs, blistering solos and Eddie Vedder’s fragile and angsty rumblings and growls. The new disc also takes time out for some reserved reflections. Accomplished musicianship and fierce conviction is key, just don’t expect great songs.
Heavy Rotation tracks: none
Medium Rotation tracks: “World Wide Suicide“; “Life Wasted“; “Severed Hand“
Grade: B-