Pros:

Lyrics are evocative and intricate, with powerful imagery and thought-provoking themes

The combination of beautiful melodies and solid guitar and bass riffs make this a traditionally strong rock album

Very distinct and unique sound, especially in the guitar tone and heavy use of effects

Cons:

Not nearly as innovative, creative or musically ingenious as the band's later works, fitting a genre rather than defying one

Mix is often cluttered and abrasive, with pounding drum shells and far too much delay

Best: Fake Plastic Trees

Worst: Bones

7/10 Room for improvement