How long can a synth drum beat boom if a boom could chick chick boom? Unable to afford a $100 drum kit, Jars of Clay decided that it'd be best to self-produce all but 2 of the songs on this album and I can't say I agree with that decision. "Liquid" and "Flood" reflect the social atmosphere of the world with bands like Nine Inch Nails (same producer) and Pearl Jam at their prime. Well mixed, well played and well performed, these two songs are what attracted me to Jars' sound and have made me a fan since '96. But the other lyrically AMAZING and HORRIBLY produced songs on this album leave a bad taste in the mouth. After listening to "Like a Child", "Art in Me", "He" and "Boy on a String" you are going to despise two things. First, the idea of over-dubbing inaudible little children's voices and that stupid crappy synth beat. As a Jars fan, it makes me cry to think of the potential these four songs could have if decently recorded. When the drum beat kicks in on "He", you just pretty much give up. It's not until "Worlds Apart" do you hear the chance that this band is more than just special. As one of the all time best songs in my life, "Worlds Apart" sneaks in and Stairway to Heavens us to death, it's breath taking. In all, this is a debut album that marks an important journey for Jars. If you don't mind a good old bumpin while listening to an album, I highly recommend it.