The Verve Pipe reaches graduation

Anyone remember The Verve Pipe? Well if so, it's surely because of the band's No. 1 gold single "The Freshmen," off of the 1996 platinum album, Villains. Being the impulsive spender I was (and still am), I purchased Villains, only having heard that track. But I only liked three songs on the album.\nWhen I picked up a copy of Underneath, the band's third release with RCA, I was apprehensive. The tone of Villains is rather pessimistic, and with all that has been going on, depressing music is not something I wanted to hear. But I was pleasantly surprised.\n"Only Words" is a catchy track with a mesmerizing chorus that pulls the listener into both the lyrics and music. Lead vocalist Brian Vander Ark has a voice suitable to his genre of rock, lending a rough yet soothing, melodic tone to any piece.\nThe guitar intro to "Never Let You Down" allows Vander Ark's strong, slightly restrained voice to come through clearly before the heavier guitars and percussion set in.\nThe style of "I Want All of You" is somewhat different in that the lead vocals carry the piece, without a lot of emphasis placed on a chorus. The subtle background vocals on this track serve as backlighting, spotlighting Vander Ark's sharply delivered lyrics.\n"Happiness Is" is also different stylistically, sounding like the Barenaked Ladies in some spots. Vander Ark sings out here about hope and finding happiness. Pay attention for a fun guitar solo in this piece.\nThe title track to the album is a nice conclusion, with Vander Ark exhibiting his higher range, coming off as soft and passionate. The poetry of the song's lyrics is to be commended.\nWhile The Verve Pipe doesn't produce a completely original rock and roll sound, there is enough variety in Underneath that the listener will find something he or she likes. The tone of this disc is much more upbeat, definitely a plus. \nFor those who like Vander Ark's style, also go to the band's Web site, the vervepipe.com, and listen to Vander Ark sing the national anthem.\nRating: 7