Never a Dull Moment
The album title aptly defines the formerMotley Crüedrummer's chaotic, highly public personal and musical life. Yet Lee, seemingly ever optimistic, continues to grow and expand musically-and while some of his modern stylings may not be to the liking of old-school Crüe fans,Never a Dull Momenthas many honest, memorable moments. The drummer-turned-guitarist (and frontman's) first "solo" album was with rapper Tilo and Lee'sMethods of Mayhemband;Never a Dull Momentis much more rock and much more solo, which, ultimately, is a good thing. It's a sort-of mix ofLinkin ParkandNickelback--leaning more toward the latter--and Lee melds modern rock with moments of gentleness and the occasional electronic and rap-influenced aggro cut, such as the punky "Face to Face." Though Lee's workable, slightly gruff voice may be one of the disc's weakest elements, the full, ultramelodic choruses on midtempo songs, such as the lovely "Ashamed" (with guest vocals fromDeftonessinger Chino Moreno), are in cool contrast to balls-out rockers like "Higher." Lee's messages, music, and songs are heartfelt and carefully crafted, and despite Lee's musical baggage,Never a Dull Momentprovides many gratifying moments for an open-minded listener.--Katherine Turman