An updated American version of '60s British Invasion groups, the Smithereens represent the epitome of traditional pop. Their sound – with most elements borrowed from that earlier genre – is at once distinctive and accessible, earning an A in Pop Songwriting 101. It isn't surprising that singer-guitarist and main songwriter Pat DiNizio had more than 30 fresh tunes to contribute to A Date With the Smithereens, the band's fifth album (excluding two EPs) and the first for their new label. DiNizio admits to composing "structured" songs. "Tight, three-minute songs with strong hooks and melodies" is how the singer describes his group's work, adding: "That's what's most important."

Like Bryan Adams and even Def Leppard, the Smithereens offer straightforward, old-fashioned, guitar-based rock & roll. Nirvana was listening to the band during the recording of Nevermind, a sure sign of pop education. Now, the Smithereens have rejoined with producer Don Dixon and added heavier riffs to their music and a social consciousness to their lyrics, but ultimately, they don't often stray far from their tried-and-true techniques.

Dixon – who produced the popfests Especially for You (1986) and Green Thoughts (1988) – balances DiNizio's perfect melodies with the electrified power of guitarist Jim Babjak, bassist Mike Mesaros and drummer Dennis Diken. The album kicks off with the deliberate hard-rock riff that dominates "War for My Mind." On two cuts guest guitarist Lou Reed displays an unexpected upbeat charm. And although "Love Is Gone" was inspired by the Los Angeles riots, it's so ironically cheerful, it could end a Monkees episode.

In his lyrics, DiNizio stops blaming former romantic partners and, in the ballad "Afternoon Tea," joins XTC, Midge Ure and Tori Amos in directing frustrating emotions toward God. The guys use their sense of humor on "Gotti," a trippy "ode" to the New York mobster, and even venture into "Weird Al" Yankovic territory on "Sick of Seattle" ("tired of flannel and growing my hair"). Coming from the Smithereens, purveyors of classic pop, this is a statement: Trends fade, but successful methods from the past survive. (RS 682)

ANDREA ODINTZ