Reviewed by Alex Figgis

Having already established themselves as no flash in the pan, with three critically acclaimed albums to their credit, Collective Soul have evidently gone from strength to strength over the past six years. 'Dosage', the band's fourth album to date, takes their familiar sound one step further toward the millennium where rock meets techno to produce some interesting results. Before you get the wrong idea, Collective Soul haven't suddenly gone industrial or - perish the thought - turned pop maestros. Instead, the band have opted for a more 'modern' sound to their already renowned brand of alternative rock music, where catchy rhythms are laid over doses of electronica to create intriguing soundscapes. Take for example the phenomenal "Heavy", a superb rock/sub-metal number where Ed Roland (vocals/guitar) tackles head on the issues concerning emotional abuse, over a bed of live drums mixed in with drum loops and a dash of electronic effects. Ed's writing has matured in keeping with the band's sound, evoking a thoughtful response within the listener. However, Collective Soul's distinctive sound is perhaps over familiar. In spite of the subtle inclusion of electronica within their musical dynamics, perhaps not even this is enough to elevate the band beyond their avid fan-base. This aside, 'Dosage' is flawless in its production and execution; where the ever consistent Shane Evans underpins the tight rhythms, proficiently laid down by Will Turpin (bass/percussion), Dean Roland (rhythms guitar) and brother Ed, allowing Ross Childress space to add extra punch to the sound with some captivating lead work. 'Dosage' is a fine modem rock album of the highest calibre, even if somewhat familiar

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