The coolest thing about this CD is, well ... the CD. With a shiny silver "VD" emblazoned overtop a serene turquoise and aquamarine swirl, it is easy on the eyes.

If only it were as easy on the ears.

Videodrone's self-titled release is the latest entry into the techno/hardcore/industrial niche pioneered by Nine Inch Nails and advanced by Marilyn Manson, and it only proves that the genre has started on a downward spiral.

This California-based band cannot decide which direction down the industrial highway their vocals should go. Should we sing? "Closer to Coma." Should we rap? ("Human Pi–ata" with Limp Bizkit's Fred Durst). Should we just talk? "Ant in the Dope." Should we sing "Silent Night" then let the song drone on for five silent minutes? "C.O.B." This indecision on a solid style makes the CD sound disorganized.

The music has a definite direction; unfortunately, it is not a good one. Unlike Videodrone's friends and contemporaries, Korn, they rely too heavily on synthesizers and drum machines as opposed to traditional guitars and drums. This softens the hard edge that Videodrone tries vainly to project on songs such as "Power Tools for Girls" and "Faceplant."

The lyrics are far from enjoyable and even further from quality. On "Human Pi–ata," vocalist Ty Elam breathes, "Man can only rape his mother for so long." Profound.

On "Closer to Coma," he laments, "Have you seen my sanity? I seem to have left it at home." Poetic.

On "L.S.D. (Lucifer's Stained Dress)," he declares, "I'm not Marilyn Manson." That is obvious.

However, there is one nugget of intelligence on Videodrone. In "Ty Jonathan Down," Elam grunts, "Some things are better left unsaid. Some things are better forgotten." If only Videodrone practiced what they preach.

- D. Eaton