While The Eels' previous album ("Daisies of the Galaxy") was an incredible one in it's own right, I was never able to fully submerge myself in it. Maybe I just had unreasonably high expectations after the opus that was "Electroshock Blues"...who knows?
"Souljacker" - the latest and unquestionably greatest - from E and the boys succeeds where "Daisies" did not. The tracks are a tad more reminescent of old school Eels, but with a considerably evolved feel; that is, the sound's definitely familiar, but not by any stretch just a regurgitation of their first two albums.

The music alone on this album is *awesome*. The band employs so many different instruments and sounds that it's hard to separate one from the other; you can't help but be overwhelmed by the funky richness of The Eels' sound. E's voice stays true to that mellow, husky flavor (breaking free for the occasional "Woooo!") and - lyrically - the man proves once again that he's a master of subtle brilliance.
Truth be told, there's not a single track on "Souljacker" that I don't like. This is one of those rare discs that can be enjoyed from start to finish, without skipping a single track. The opening track, "Dog-Faced Boy", has an absolutely intoxicating drum beat (as well as the wonderful lines, "Mama won't shave me/Jesus can't save me"). "Fresh Feeling" is perfect and mellow, "Friendly Ghost" is the epitome of all that a song should be...aagh, it's hard to single out a favorite...

What can I say: This CD is wicked good. One of the best albums that I own, if that means anything to you.