With the addition of a fifth band member, Switchfoot's music has evolved. The fuller sound is especially evident in the hard-rocking opening track, "Lonely Nation."

There's little reason to talk about "Stars" or "We are one tonight" since most everyone has heard them already, so let me focus your attention instead to two other gems from "Nothing is Sound."

"The Shadow Proves the Sunshine" is probably the best mellow song on the album, with searing vocals and heartfelt lyrics. If there is ever a best of Swtichfoot album it will not be complete without this song.

"Easier than love" might be the best song from this release. The song has a gritty, in-your-face type of sound that reminds me a little of "Ammunition" from "The Beautiful Letdown" album. The lyrics describe how sex is trivialized by the mass media. Definately not a theme I'm used to hearing from established rock bands.

As much as I like this album, I have to say it doesn't match "New Way to be Human" and even falls short of "The Beautiful Letdown." There are a few tracks in the middle that are just Ho-hum like "Politicians" and "The Setting Sun." To me those songs are tired and not particularly catching.

Still, everything Switchfoot has done has been impressive and this is no different. Those who already love the band will find a few more gems to add to the already long list of "favorite" Switchfoot tunes. Those who've never heard the band before will discover one of the greatest contemporary rock bands and hopefully check out some of their earlier work, too.