Guardian's new album, Bottle Rocket is yet another step in the evolution of Guardian's music. Steve Taylor has produced their album a second consecutive time, bringing in Taylor-written lyrics, & an influence in sound. With their last album, buzz, being a big step from the arena rock sound of Miracle Mile and earlier albums, Bottle Rocket shows the band wanting to keep up with the times. It's is more alternative than buzz, but still remains to stay Guardian. The album is driven by fuzzy guitars, moving rhythms and powerful, inspiring lyrics, stripping the angst of buzz and picking up a positive message, illuminating in the title cut, which is a 90's version of "This Little Light of Mine."

Although the modern/hard rock sound of songs like "Are We Comfortable Yet," and "Coffe Can" might churn the stomach of a devout Miracle Mile fan, the album is a must for the die-hard Guardian fan. And even if you hated Miracle Mile, Swing, Swang, Swung, or even buzz, I still recommend checking out the fresh explosive change of Bottle Rocket.

- Written by John DiBiase, 1997