Cake's 'Showroom of Compassion'

Cake singer John McCrea's jaded, deadpan vocals used to camouflage all sorts of intentions, from the leering "Short Skirt, Long Jacket" to the ironic fake enthusiasm of "The Distance." On "Showroom of Compassion" (Upbeat),

McCrea apparently has less to hide. The single "Sick of You" is remarkably straightforward and catchy. The jaded delivery on the trudging "Federal Funding" matches the rocker's jaded take on the government. "Showroom of Compassion" could use a few more layers, but Cake certainly knows how to make the sale.

Cake

"Showroom of Compassion"

GRADE B

BOTTOM LINE This well-crafted Cake is even drier than usual.