Much like the year in movies, the year in music has been less than stellar. With only a few months left in the year, there aren't a lot of worthy titles left. Obviously, what is lacking is originality. If I have to listen to another Third Eye Blind, I'll throw up.

For this reason I'm happy to report that Stunt, Barenaked Ladies newest album, is a winner. To be perfectly honest, this Canadian quintet doesn't really need anymore publicity. Stunt has been on the Top Twenty Billboard chart since itÕs release. I'm going to review it anyway, because it's one of the most refreshing and entertaining albums of the year. The Barenaked Ladies have a sound all their own, which sets them apart from the Savage onslaught of sound-a-like bands.

Lead vocalists Steven Page and Ed Robertson have a fun time on this their fifth album. "One Week," their first single, is a quirky and winning mixture of hip-hop and pure pop. As big of a hit as "One Week" has become, it's hardly the best card up Stunt's sleeve. "Alcohol" is a saucy little tune that's destined to become a party anthem in no time. Similarly "Call And Answer," a beautifully written love song, is the album's best number.

The Barenaked Ladies best quality is their spontaneity, which is fully evident on this album but even more apparent in their live shows. I recently saw them on the Horde tour and, in my opinion, they stole the show from the likes of Ben Harper and Blues Traveller. These guys are so gosh darned audience friendly and energetic, you can't help becoming an instant fan. Following their Horde set, Ed took the time to sign autographs and talk to the crowd, myself included. He didn't leave until he talked to every last one of us.