Puddle of Mudd plan to release their second album, the tentatively titled Life on Display, in late August. Seventeen tracks for the set are complete, but in the middle of recording with producer John Kurzweg, who also worked on their 2001 debut Come Clean, the band wrote three additional songs that they're planning to flesh out and consider for the album.

"I've been writing," singer Wes Scantlin says, "to see if I can come up with something even better to replace something that wasn't as good. All the songs are really strong and really irreplaceable, so it's hard."

"We're not trying to do anything different," he continues. "We're just trying to come up with passionate songs and melodies that connect with people."

For Scantlin, the best part of finally finishing the record will be getting back on the road. "The next tour is going to be amazing," he says. "I can't wait to go back out. I miss our fans so much."

STEVE BALTIN
(March 20, 2003)