This is so immediate and so "chart-like" at times, but they never lose that Goo Goo Dolls sound.

The Goo Goo Dolls' main-man John Rzeznik has had the success and the longevity, and now he wants the challenge. With album number twelve (how time flies), he sets out his stall telling us he wanted to do "something bold and bright." The challenge is a big one; to make different sounds without straying from the core vibe, but also to deliver a lyrical message about those who want it all now – the quick cure, the immediate fix or that kind of social media instant gratification.

What they have given us in return is bright AOR Pop! Opener 'Indestructible' has "whoa" moments to sing along with for miles, whereas 'Fearless' is light, airy and great to dance to; it's exactly what we love them for. Elsewhere, just listen to that prime Goo Goo goodness when they let the guitars go on 'Think It Over'.

The title-track (with its insistent one-note approach) creeps up on you until a stomping chorus kicks you in the arse, and you simply can't argue with the smooth 'Money, Fame And Fortune' which bears a resemblance to Indie darlings M.G.M.T. in the verse. I can easily imagine 'Lights' pleasing any arena crowd.

This is so immediate and so "chart-like" at times, but they never lose that Goo Goo Dolls sound and the lovely calm break for 'Autumn Leaves' really earns its explosion in the middle.

There you have it; they've walked that tightrope, stopping in the middle to smile at us and never, ever looking down. This has all the fun of the fair!

Ms. D