reissued version - ultimately, 'the stage names' shows how a vastly talented 'mid-level band' (their own words) sees itself, but there's no bitterness here, just overwhelming self-doubt and perseverance. despite its density (they fit worlds into just nine songs), the album remains exciting and accessible, albeit highly sobering. it's about the folly of popular music and its attendant lifestyles, but these songs are so good and so moving that they only give us stupid, stubborn hope.
