*** Fastball

ALL THE PAIN MONEY CAN BUY

(Hollywood)

At first you might hear a great disparity between the melody and the lyrics on All the Pain Money Can Buy -- hidden behind catchy, sweet layers of harmony lie difficult and troubling questions about the future. But in fact both the words and the music from this Austin-based trio work to convey the message of an optimistic departure from a dark and dusty world in favor of sunnier pastures. The radio-friendly single "The Way" describes an old couple who ditch a family reunion for more exciting escapades. The equally lively "Better Than It Was" is about money problems that no longer seem to matter. Tony Scalzo and Miles Zuniga take turns at lead vocals, which helps break up the monotony of the disc's 13 uptempo guitar-driven tunes, as does a guest vocal by Poe, and a cameo by a brass ensemble.

-- Ian Pervil