When the well educated dabble in folk musics, only the shortest distance separates shtick from sincerity, and that tenuous gap makes all the difference (witness: Palace). Like its predecessor, the second longplayer from Lincoln, Neb.'s Lullaby for the Working Class has the alchemy of an acoustic and possibly sober Guided by Voices, with Ted Stevens' earnest vocals searching out elusive notes in the classic indie-rock tradition. Out of that comes a controlled shambles and odd juxtapositions. Lines like "Faith is a candle in direct sunlight" lurk within, surrounded by the polished play of skilled musicians. It's either magic or mush. Both, really. (RS 778)

GRANT ALDEN