Arguably the UK's biggest musical export in the '90s Bush were massive in the States, selling over 10 million albums yet they never really had the same success here in Britain. Their debut 'Sixteen Stone' and the follow up 'Razorblade Suitcase' made them household names in the US. Of course they were seen by many as a poor man's Pearl Jam/Nirvana cross-breed, and as grunge inevitably ran its course so did Bush their star fading with subsequent poorly received albums, the band finally calling it a day in 2002. After nearly 10 years apart Bush now return with their fifth studio album, well half of them do anyway. Gavin Rossdale could not persuade founding member and guitarist Nigel Pulsford and bassist Dave Parsons to return, but he does have Robin Goodridge back on the drum stool, so some may argue it is more of a Rossdale solo effort than a full blown Bush reunion.

'The Sea Of Memories' is pretty far removed from the grunge heavy moments of 'Sixteen Stone'; there is no 'Glycerine' or 'Bomb' anywhere to be found. This is the polished, alternative stadium rock sound more akin to 30 Seconds To Mars or even the Foo Fighters funnily enough, and with none other than Bob Rock at the helm you know it's going to be a big sounding album.

It all starts fairly well; 'The Mirror of the Signs' builds nicely, a steady rocker, the effect-laden guitars call out like a beacon almost to those who will listen. The rhythm section is regimentally tight and the guitars crunch, laying the base for Rossdale's unmistakable tones.

First single 'The Sound Of Winter' hints at Rossdale's past glories, it's instant and catchy, the song driving along on a grunge light melody, layered guitars complimenting the vocals into a nice instant chorus. 'All My Life', with its crunchy and awkward opening riff, drifts along but ultimately goes nowhere fast, not even the twin guitar break can save it. Four songs in and 'The Afterlife' is like an alternative to the alternative sound on offer (if you catch my drift), the sweet guitar lines and a cool upbeat chorus that soars sky high makes this song an album highlight.

Halfway through and it all goes a bit radio friendly for me and what started as an impressive sounding album veers towards musical mediocrity. Turning point is the piano led 'All Night Doctors', a song that tries too hard to be a 'lighters aloft' sentimental ballad but ends up falling short of the mark. Several songs veer into modern day U2 territory, like the sickly sweet 'Red Light' and then both 'She's A Stallion' and 'I Believe In YoU' sound like Sting if he tried to make a 'rock' album; it's rock music for grown ups, for the Top Gear soundtrack lovers - it will make you tap your feet but it won't change your world.

There are no surprises here, two or three tracks hit the spot, but there is nothing special that stands out to grab you and pull you in.

'The Sea Of Memories' is the perfect example of the sign of the times, a very safe album that does not really have much to say. Perfect for the iTunes generation and the occasional rock fan, it will fit nicely filed between Bon Jovi and Coldplay on their iPods.

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