Split The Difference
It can't be said enough: Gomez is probably the most unlikely name for a five British kids who worshipTom Waitsand theGrateful Dead. But that's nothing compared to their sound, a growling brand of blues-rock that sounds like it originates on the Mississippi rather than the Thames. The group's previous album, 2002'sIn Our Gun, was all about experimenting in the studio.Split the Difference, then, is Gomez getting back on track. The band makes a decent attempt to revive the homemade feel of its early recordings, turning up at least two winners in "Extra Special" and "Sweet Virginia," but it seems like a compromise. While the three-part harmonies soar, a distinct lack on inspiration suggests the band would rather have another go at pushing buttons and name-checkingKraftwerk. "We Don't Know Where We're Going" seems to say it all.--Aidin Vaziri