It's been four years since Lou Barlow gave us his first solo effort Emoh, but at times Goodnight Unknown feels so rushed that he may have needed another year or two.

Lou, a founder member of Dinosaur Jr and Sebadoh, and in part responsible for some of the most inspiring indie rock of the 1990s, seems to have strengthened his solo offerings — yet at times still fails to hook or inspire the listener. Immediately the opener 'Sharing' thrusts us right in with a charged beat but fails to catch your full attention and almost as if getting off to a false start, all that follows then shuffles along to a different, slower beat.

There are a couple of gems strewn amongst the 14 tracks; 'The Right' draws the listener in with its simple genius and pop march. Whilst with 'One Machine, One Long Fight' finally feels like things are turning for the better, with a fine vocals, thick drums and catchy lyrics but all too soon it's over and 'Praise' reverts us back to a dull record struggling to find its direction.

The closing track, one of the best, 'One Note Tone' tells us "...what you did won't be what you're remembered for." I just hope he's right, as there are many better things to remember Lou for than Goodnight Unknown. (Aaron Jennings)