Imagine that Jakob Dylan is not his dad's son. Imagine he is a causal rock star that had two solid albums and a few radio hits. But, take a look at the lackluster reception of his band's last album, Breach. What is his next move?

The best thing to do would be to create an album that holds nothing back, that relies on his band's strong points and that shoves it in the face of the public and critics who slammed the last outing. But the problem is that the Wallflowers' new album, Red Letter Days, is more of a talking voice to those naysayers, when the band could have used a megaphone.

Nevertheless, the band's sound seems to fill a gap in music. Red Letter Days continues on the Wallflowers' slight transformation on Breach. But at times, when Breach's music is hushed, it frames Dylan's earnest lyrics. Red Letter Days' sound is layered and hook-heavy, and Dylan's lyrics just aren't as strong.

There are some impressive tracks, which keep my faith that the band will eventually create a great album. The first track, "When You're On Top," catches the Wallflowers being a little bit experimental. The band utilizes some Who-ish sound effects and a David Byrne-like lyrical delivery to moderate success. Mike McCready, guitarist for Pearl Jam, contributes skilled guitar licks to the track. The mixture is pure summer road-trip rock 'n' roll.

Dylan seethes through an uptempo guitar and drums on the track "Everybody Out of the Water." When he sings his urgent lyrics, it's easier to believe him, and when he yells, the band usually sounds complete. The Wallflowers need to rock more and get Dylan mad -- pissed off even. I suggest making him read all the reviews comparing him to his dad. Then maybe the Wallflowers could make a big rock record.

Grade: B