This time around, Vitamin has interpreted the music of
Pearl Jam on viola, violin, and cello. It shouldn't be surprising that the string quartet versions of "Better Man" and "Elderly Woman" appearing here are the album standouts. The songs have always been two of the most sweeping, achingly melodic numbers in the band's arsenal. Elsewhere, "Alive" retains its verses' brooding tone, only to explode with melody during the chorus, as the violins harmonize over a determined cello. The drifting strains of "Release" close out the tribute portion of the album, and lead into an original composition inspired by
Pearl Jam's music. "Flannel Rain" is an impossibly terrible song title, but the piece does suggest the grandeur that's always fueled
Pearl Jam's guitar heroics. ~ Johnny Loftus