Hands down, this is one of my favorite albums of all time. I can only count in one hand the other albums I find perfect (My Bloody Valentine's, "Loveless," Cocteau Twins', "Blue Bell Knoll," Bon Iver's, "For Emma," and The Wild Swan's, "Bringing Home the Ashes"). I find their musical style shift on this second album a welcome move. It's really bold of them to change so drastically.... From modern folk with banjos to 80s synth. I love it (I am a bit biased, I was an eighties New Wave kid). Keep in mind, the spirit of their first album, "Islands," is still present (the banjos and guitars are still there). And the excellent songwriting--one of the reasons why I am a big fan--is as strong as ever. "Dew on the Vine" is my favorite track--The lyrics really get to me and I love the Bruce Springsteen vibe. The first track and album title, "Red Earth and Pouring Rain," is also an outstanding song. Go research the source of the title, you will appreciate the track more. All the songs are fantastic, it's so hard to narrow down the other good ones. Okay, three more, "Gabriel," "New Jerusalem," and "Napoleon." I can to on and on.... Just buy the album right now! Oh yeah, and I can't wait to see them live in Boston soon!!!