Worm's Life

The big, politely gnarly guitars of Brad Roberts add a crunchy new dimension to his bemused, high-fiber musings. Yet the real difference on this third album is the depth of radio-friendly material from a band whose success has been based largely on two remarkable singles. Once the irresistible romp "He Liked to Feel It" fades, "Overachievers," "My Enemies," and the ballads "My Own Sunrise" and the title track will keep the momentum going. Classy, melodic and true to his own wry intellect, Roberts has marshaled a world-class album. --Jeff Bateman