Given the pedigree of Lapdog, it was a given that I would like them. Comprised of ex-Toad the Wet Sprocket members Todd Nichols and Dean Dinning, Lapdog was formed in the wake of Toad's breakup in 1998. Formed with other musicians in the Santa Barbara music scene, the group played around for a while before finally releasing their debut album Near Tonight late last year. In my opinion, Nichols wrote some of Toad's best songs: "I Think About," "Crazy Life," and "Begin." Expecting a collection of songs in this vein, I quickly learned that this was not to be the case.

From the opening chords of "See You Again," it became clear that Lapdog was not going to have the gentle, folksy vibe that was a hallmark of Toad's music. Lapdog's a bit edgier, a bit harder. Their sound is more in the direction of such groups as Better Than Ezra, Far Too Jones and Athenaeum (with whom they co-wrote "See You Again"). This is a good thing in my opinion; it shows that Nichols has matured as a songwriter and come into his own. Some standout tracks on the album include "See You Again," "Perfect You," and the Bic anthem "I Don't Mind." Yet you can hear traces of Toad in the aforementioned songs and in others such as "Rescue Me," "Walkaway" and "Gone."

Toad fans will appreciate the fact that Near Tonight was released on Abe's Records, the indie label that released Toad's first two albums, Bread and Circus and Pale, prior to their being signed by Columbia Records. In addition, Brad Nack, who did the cover art for Bread and Circus way back in 1988, also did the cover for Near Tonight. If you liked Toad, then by all means buy this album, but don't go into it expecting Toad. If you do you will be disappointed. If you're a fan of the current alterna-pop scene, then this album will appeal to you also. Heads up though: Near Tonight isn't available in stores. You'll have to purchase it online at the band's web site, LapDog Music.