'Good News' insightful CD that won't leave you bored

Modest Mouse has been quietly releasing albums for about eight years. But until the group's latest CD, not a whole lot of people paid attention. With the sudden popularity of bands who play garage rock - think The White Stripes - it may be the right time for Modest Mouse to quit being so, well, modest.

"Good News for People Who Love Bad News" starts out how most Modest Mouse CDs start out, with a song that gives almost no indication as to how the rest of the album will play out. In this case, Modest Mouse gets a little help from a blast of brass instrument-playing that leaves listeners going "Huh?" Regardless, the album picks up and continues right along in typical Modest Mouse style.

Over the years, Modest Mouse has never settled on a sound. This seems to be a double-edged sword. The band's last album, "The Moon and Antarctica," was the best to date. Most bands would stick to a well-received sound. But Modest Mouse didn't - it changed its sound again.

Although it is definitely sad to see the near-death of an inventive sound that is truly fantastic, Modest Mouse reminds you that it still is the same band. "Good News" is a great album with almost all of the same elements that made "The Moon and Antarctica" a great album.

Issac Brocks's lyrics are insightful and inspiring. With the first single "Float On," Modest Mouse gives listeners a great song about being optimistic. The CD flows nicely from track to track, and the entire album has a sense of wholeness. With 16 songs, there is plenty to go around.

Modest Mouse is one of those great bands that will never leave you bored. With fabulous lyrics and even better instrument work, the group is sure to keep you guessing and wanting more.

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