This album compelety took me by suprise. I heard no resemblence to GN'R or The Pilots at all, save for on their latest single "Slither". Now this isn't a bad thing at all, because as many have already pointed out, who wants a re-hash of old bands over again. The downpoints are that to these ears, Weiland's voice has become somewhat weak compared his early work with the Pilots, but this "new" vocal style he has definitely works better to produce the modern and new sound the band has. The one thing that is still present, thankfully, is Slash's excellent ear shredding solos. A perfect picture of this album is like Godsmack clashing with the Roses. The guitar is definitley heavier and more down tuned than on most Roses and Pilots songs but you still have those great solos that were standard with the Roses cuts. Its basically 80's metal updated. Anywayas a great record for those who love to rock hard but don't go in with any certain expectation except to rock out!