Filled with pretty melodies, delicate strumming and concise, focused, melodic tunes, Phish's eighth studio record marks a bit of a departure from the norm, but not as much of a departure as many might think. For one thing, 1996's Billy Breathes moved in a similar direction--to the delight of casual fans and the dismay of many Phish fanatics. For another, even at their most frenetic and far-reaching, the band has always shown a keen pop sensibility, even if it was merely a chance to catch their breath. Make no mistake: most of the songs on Farmhouse are wonderfully, irresistibly catchy--and often quite lovely. This was clearly singer and guitarist Trey Anastasio's baby from the start, and he fills the album with some of his most appealing compositions. And as usual, there's a diverse range of styles, from straight pop to country soul to easy funk to gentle balladry. That said, fans used to hearing these songs live will most likely be disappointed by Farmhouse. Too often, you find yourself waiting for the explosive jam that never happens, and when it does, as on "Piper", it seems oddly out of place. Ironically, the final song, the cunning instrumental "First Tube", has what's been missing all along--bite. In the long run, this is not the album that Phish will be remembered for, as it plays away from what makes them unique. --Marc Greilsamer