Saliva: Dave Novotny (bass guitar); Josey Scott, Wayne Swinny, Paul Crosby.

Personnel: Josey Scott (vocals); Wayne Swinny (guitar, background vocals); Paul Crosby (drums); Dave Novotny (background vocals).

Audio Mixer: Bob Marlette.

Recording information: Sound City, Studio City, CA; The Blue Room, Woodland Hills, CA.

Editor: Sid Riggs.

Photographer: Daragh McDonagh.

Saliva's ongoing musical development from their rap-metal roots to the often downright radio-friendly songs on their 2007 release, BLOOD STAINED LOVE STORY, reflects the band's adaptability to their changing environment as well as their hunger for success. Their previous album, 2004's SURVIVAL OF THE SICKEST, was recorded in their Memphis hometown and has a feral Southern rock sound, but LOVE STORY's sophisticated sheen and tuneful workouts reflect its sunnier, more sophisticated Los Angeles origins. "Ladies and Gentlemen" may be as tailor-made for a WWF smackdown soundtrack as many of the band's former songs, but "Broken Sunday"'s U2/Coldplay influence hints at ambitions for a wider fan base, and "Black Sheep"'s awe-inspiring dive-bomber guitar riff will be irresistible to anyone raised on SoCal emo who's ever heard of Nirvana.

Entertainment Weekly (p.77) - "[T]hey surprise with bright, leavening pop sensibility on 'Ladies and Gentlemen'." -- Grade: B