Let Love In

Anyone who claims to be a fan of the Goo Goo Dolls will appreciate this album, the band's latest studio release since 2002's Gutterflower.

Let Love In is different from their other albums in a couple ways. First, the cover is hauntingly beautiful. While their recent album covers have featured women, this one doesn't appear to be objectifying the cover girl. It is simple and elegant, but something gives away the possibility that there might be a story involved.

Second, the songs are refreshing yet traditional. They are all consistent with the Goo Goo Dolls's usual style of classic rock and roll mixed with sentimentality. The first track is titled "Stay with You," an unconventional love song about passion and loyalty. The second track, "Let Love In," is perhaps a tribute to the cover girl with a "God-given face." The opening instrumentals are fit for an orchestra and the lyrics are so relatable, listeners are inspired to have more faith in the power of love. Finally, the third notable song on the album is "Better Days," a poem so touching and profound, it might just bring about world peace (note: this is an exaggeration).

While every song on this album is enjoyable to listen to, some are so ordinary that they blend together with other songs. Listeners might find themselves wondering if they are hearing the same tune over and over again.

Compared to favorites like "Iris" and "Slide," these songs are not as mainstream or popular. In fact, they are rarely played on the radio. The only exception is "Better Days," which has unfortunately been slated as a Christmas song. In due time, the poetic meaning will be lost and it will become a tired and overplayed holiday jingle.

Fortunately for the other songs, their lack of air-time will allow for preservation. These songs will keep Goo Goo Dolls fans entertained until another album can be enjoyed and appreciated.