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(NODEPRESSION.NET) -- Artistic evolution has been a hallmark of Joe Jackson's career, from shifting band lineups to his early identification with new wave through forays into reggae, jump blues, sophisticated pop, and classical. On Rain, his first studio album in five years, Jackson summons his original rhythm section of bassist Graham Maby and drummer Dave Houghton, but he alters his sound by forgoing lead guitar in favor of his piano.

The move to a trio format opens up the songs and gives plenty of space to each instrumentalist. "The Uptown Train" has a brisk, jazzy feel as Jackson broadens his vocal range with an effective falsetto. "King Pleasure Time" and "Good Bad Boy" evoke the feisty attitude and spirit of his Look Sharp and I'm The Man albums. Jackson's frantic vocal is a good fit on "King Pleasure Time", which addresses the allure of addictive behavior. "Good Bad Boy" is a look at the emptiness of image making in a celebrity-driven society.

Jackson tones down the rhetoric on "Solo (So Low)", a dramatic, if a bit overwrought, ballad that showcases his piano work. "Rush Across The Road" is a wistful slice of melodic pop about missed opportunities: "Funny how the blink of an eye can last forever/And how we think ourselves dry when it's now or never." At 53, Jackson sounds rejuvenated on Rain, like a runner hitting his second wind.

-- TOM WILK
Copyright c. 2008 No Depression Inc. and/or Tom Wilk.