Not content with the status quo of band photos and random artsy shots as album art, Weezer took a new route with their newly released album, Hurley (an ode to television’s Hugo “Hurley” Reyes, Lost’s resident “dude”).

Gone are the sunny days of Beverly Hills, the Playboy Mansion, and islands in the sun. Here, frontman Rivers Cuomo’s songwriting draws on heavy themes of failed romances, self-destruction, and nostalgia. Life has been difficult for the band in recent years: their previous album, Raditude, was a critical flop. Cuomo certainly has had inspiration flowing from under a dark cloud.

The record’s first single “Memories” is a relatable but otherwise forgettable rock song where Cuomo wishes the chorus away with a desire “to go back there,” wherever life was good. Cuomo strikes a chord with the lyrics, but the accompanying melodies fall flat.

But it’s not all bad. Gems include the acoustic “Unspoken,” a recount of a messy split, and “Hang On,” which features geek-chic actor Michael Cera on backing vocals.

The standout of the album lies in “Smart Girls,” a power-pop burst with catchy hooks and chugging guitars guaranteed to implant itself in your brain for days on end.

Although a definite change in direction from past works, Hurley is still a little hit-and-miss. Forget the first few songs and continue on to what Weezer does best: quirky pop anthems with engaged, clever lyrics—cocktail toast to love, pain, and wasted youth.