Sticks and Stones

The members of Moe. composed almost eighty percent of their 9th studio album, "Sticks and Stones," during its recording. This is quite impressive considering the remarkable musicianship of the five members and intricacy of the tracks. It will be available January 22, 2008.

Formed in 1990, Moe. is generally compared to other jam bands such as Phish and the Grateful Dead. Although the comparisons are justified, this album is more comparable to albums by bands like the Black Crowes, in that is heavily influenced by the blues and southern rock styles of the 1970's. This is American rock and roll at its best, with hooks, beats and melodies that will stay with you long after the song has ended.

The album is paced very well, opening strong with a few hard hitting songs, (including the stand out title track) then slowing the pace with "Conviction Song," a song that showcases the vocals of Rob Derhak. Just before you think you might be too mellowed-out, the pace picks up again and ends strongly with the song "Raise A Glass." This is the kind of album you'll want to listen to at a summer barbecue, over a few beers with some friends and maybe in jam-band tradition, a game of Frisbee.

Key tracks: "Sticks and Stones," "All Roads Lead to Home" and "Raise a Glass."