Tesla rockers 'Bust a Nut'

Tesla offers little maturity in its third release, "Bust A Nut."

The new CD lacks the catchy melodic tunes Tesla is known for, and it fails to live up to the band's consistent quality. A clue to this lackluster effort may be the change in producers, and the new ones fail to bring out Tesla's gritty attitude and fast- paced brand of rock 'n' roll.

Songs like "Mama's Fool" - with an oversung chorus - and the blasˇ and forgettable "Earthmover," are good examples of a bad Tesla.

Die-hard Tesla fans may not be disappointed with "Bust A Nut." They may just be glad see new material from a band that has been on hiatus for three years. In songs like "The Gate/Invited," "Shine Away," "Try So Hard" and "Wonderful World," Tesla goes back to their roots, giving the listener "songs that stick in their heads." This is something Tesla has done well on their last two records.

Singer Jeff Keith's raspy voice gives the songs their soulful edge that make otherwise unoriginal melodies enjoyable.

Instrumentally, the songs allow t he band's talents to shine, even if the music itself is not that memorable. The guitar riffs by Frank Hannon and Tommy Skeoch on "Solution" are a good example.

The appealing part about Tesla is that they stick to their "No Machines" motto by using guitars (both acoustic and electric) and drums, and are not influenced by the electronic equipment that many bands use. The effect is a non-commercial uncorporate sound and image.

Tesla's music focuses on having fun, with lyrics about dealing with relationships, being tough and having a positive attitude. Tesla does not obsess about death or destruction like many of today's bands.

For the most part, Tesla's upbeat tempo is present in every song, another good reason to have some "ear candy" by checking out "Bust A Nut."