Many critics, and fans for that matter, thought New Jersey native Pete Yorn's second album Day I Forgot was one big underachievement, slumming it when he was capable of so much more. Anyone who dug his debut would have been expecting a continuation of that quirky introspection that Yorn seemed to be making a name for.

This reviewer was one of the very few who enjoyed Day I Forgot for what it was an allowed Yorn the benefit of the doubt as it was clear that he had the talent to pull off something mind blowing in the future.

His third album Nightcrawler is not it but don't let that distract you. Its sound comfortably straddles those from the first two records, which makes sense considering it completes his all-day trilogy that began with his breakthrough Musicforthemorningafter. Therefore the album offers up a strange hybrid feel that takes a few listens to get into its particular groove. Once there it is pleasant stuff.

Case in point: Single 'For Us' has the widescreen touch of R.E.M.'s 'New Adventures In Hi-Fi' period but with enough rock edge to be heard on FM radio. As for 'Georgie Boy', it is in a world (possibly existence) of its own, one where David Byrne is worshipped by all and sundry.

For all the strange creative bends in his work, Yorn's bread and butter is when he lets his defences fall and opens up a more direct approach. Early fans will get enjoyment out of songs like 'Ice Age' and 'The Man' (featuring backing vocals by Natalie Maines from the Dixie Chicks) while 'Maybe I'm Right' harks back to the sounds of the first album.

Interesting to note the inclusion of a couple of older songs from the repertoire like the extremely catchy 'Undercover' (from the first Spiderman film) and his contribution to the Warren Zevon tribute album with 'Splendid Isolation'. The album ends with the beautiful song 'Bandstand In The Sky' that was written the day Jeff Buckley died.

Yorn has once again set his fans a challenge with his latest release. The intriguing thing will be whether said fans will be with him next time around.