Last week I caved, after initially intending to avoid any snippets from the album. And though I feel a little guilty, it's only hyped up this release even more. I was slightly disappointed by a few things; namely the mix on Roller Coaster. Jon's vocals are a little too exposed, and they perhaps should've employed some of those 'gang vocals' for the chorus. From what I can tell, it remains a fun, uber-catchy pop rock number, but I think the execution could've been better - much like Knockout I suppose. I think Reunion will wear off pretty quickly for me also, though it's a harmless and catchy track. I guess that's the price we pay for hearing the songs live prior to the full album release - we become accustomed to a certain arrangement and grow attached to, or are repelled by, it.

I wasn't particularly moved by Living With The Ghost from the live performances, nor New Years Day - although I totally bought into Jon's whole story about Tico introducing the drum beat and changing the song in the studio etc.. But those two songs, just from what I've heard off the record, sound like they could be my favourites from the album - putting aside The Devil's In The Temple of course! I'm so glad that the guitar sound on the album is equally as rocky and gritty. Born Again Tomorrow puts a smile on my face every bloody time - and sometimes that's all you can ask for.

Another song that surprised me is I Will Drive You Home. It's totally beautiful and entrancing. That drum beat and general vibe recalls DA, as some people here have mentioned. But for me that extended outro with the robotic vocals take the song to another level - stunning and unexpected.

So here's to everything on the album coming together in a meaningful way on Friday, when I have that Deluxe Edition blasting on the way back from the record store.