Of course it’s all subjective but it seems to me that the reviewer here was expecting something that this band aren’t. Although Passover is a great album I personally listen to Directions To See A Ghost much more, I find it is different from Passover, it has more depth to it but The Black Angels aren’t a band for people who want traditionally written songs with clear lyrics and clearly set out parts for the songs. They are more about getting lost in the music, enjoying the comfort zone but even in this comfort zone there is plenty of darkness. Why shouldn’t the band write about the Vietnam war? It provided a good human theme which historically has crossed over into psychedelia before, it’s an odd contrast that works, war and peace, it fits in well with the influences of this band.

I disagree that they are more liberal with the psychedelic guitar, I think it’s more down to the production, Pass over was more upfront, this album has more contrast, things blend very nicely.

This sort of music is hypnotic, it flows well and takes the listener on a trip, the best way to do that is use lots of reverb, don’t make song structures too complicated, keep a groove, let things flow. The Black Angels are masters at doing this sort of thing. They are also brilliant live!