SCREAMING TREES”Sweet Oblivion” Epic* * *The third...

SCREAMING TREES

“Sweet Oblivion”

Epic

* * *

The third major-label outing by these longtime stalwarts of the Northwest music scene is one of the best examples of guitar-driven distortion-pop since Husker Du called it quits. The quartet serves up a generous portion of infectious guitar hooks and pounding rhythm, complemented by lead singer Mark Lanegan’s gravelly voice and introspective lyrics.

“Shadow of the Season” and the first single, “Nearly Lost You,” start this album like a double-barreled shotgun blast--straight ahead and high-powered. Producer Don Fleming, who has also worked with Teenage Fanclub, builds on the Trees’ garage-band foundation without losing the energy and passion the group exhibited on its earlier efforts for Sub Pop and SST Records.

There are also more soulful moments. “More or Less” and “Dollar Bill” are well-crafted navigations into the sentimental. On other tracks, the group finds a mid-tempo groove propelled by drummer Barrett Martin and bassist Van Conner. But it is on faster numbers where Gary Lee Conner’s resourceful and subtle guitar style shines.

Laudably, the group has managed to produce its most accessible album to date while staying true to its post-punk roots. There are no compromises here, just outstanding music.