Although not as good as "Without You I`m Nothing" or "Black Market Music", Placebo`s debut is a fine, consistent rock album nonetheless, one that already showcases the band`s poignancy. Their meld of glam, punk, pop, rock and some experimentation in between makes for a solid record that still sounds fresh and appealling even if the trio has done better work after its release. Brian Molko`s voice is a central element here and one of the band`s strenghts, though it disturbs some people who consider it too whiny and androginous. "Placebo" focuses teenage innocence (or the loss of it) and the process of growing up, dealing with new matches, fears and obstacles. The lyrics are interesting, deep and appropriately ambivalent, presenting lost dreams and dark futures. Even the more noisy songs here show a fragile, hurt side, expressing teenage rebellion and loss. The overall tone and sound of the album can be compared to some Smashing Pumpkins` or Suede`s material, or even Nirvana, since these are bands that deal with related themes and ideas. "Placebo" is a strong record, a good debut from one of the best rock bands around.