Big Bang Theory

Like 2004's less than stellar Cyclorama, those looking for this to be the big Styx record that will catapult them back into the mainstream will be sorely disappointed in the contents of this record. It's not a CD of new material, rather, it's a 14-song collection of covers from some of the band's influences and all-time rock favorites. Starting with a live recording of the Beatles' "I Am the Walrus," the band works its way through the great rock & roll songbook with safe, relative ease. Also included are the Who's "I Can See for Miles,"the Lovin' Spoonful's "Summer in the City," Blind Faith's "Can't Find My Way Home," Jimi Hendrix's "Manic Depression," Jethro Tull's "Locomotive Breath," and Free's "Wishing Well." All fine choices, and in combination with Styx's usual clean production and relaxed atmosphere around the usually serious album format makes Big Bang Theory a record that die-hard fans will enjoy and casual fans might regard as a passing novelty stopgap in between records.