With this record the Dummies set out to give quirky eclecticism a good name. Originally a folk-pop outfit, they have absorbed more R&B, loops, jazz-influenced pop a la Steely Dan and Gil Scott-Heron, even rap to create "Give Yourself A Hand." The pastiche-like sound is full of fresh color thanks to the production of Greg Wells and to the witty musical asides of this deft, understated ensemble. In his expressive and multi-faceted baritone (not to mention chilling falsetto), Brad Roberts continues to ponder his skewed vision of the mysteries of this world.
As frivolous as some of the lyrics sound ("I Want To Par-Tay!" and "Aching To Sneeze") there is enough darkness on Roberts' mind to go around for all. While it may be going to far to call this a concept record, Roberts' themes remain consistent throughout--deception, humiliation, obsessive love, bodily functions, self-preservation. An added attraction is band member Ellen Reid stepping up to sing lead on three numbers.