Velvet Revolver News

Scott Weiland, "Happy in Galoshes" (New West Records)

Fresh of his five-year stint with Velvet Revolver and a brief reunion tour with Stone Temple Pilots, enigmatic frontman Scott Weiland returns with his second solo offering, "Happy in Galoshes."

Weiland's post-glam persona relies heavily on David Bowie and Iggy Pop, and he channels his love of both in very soft and minimal ways here — unlike his very STP-ish 1998 solo debut, the underappreciated "12 Bar Blues."

There are two versions — a single CD and an expanded version which spreads 19 tracks over two discs (available only at Best Buy for now, but to be available at other retailers in three months). "Happy" is a healthy departure from his previous work, with softer vocals and an odd sense of childish wonder.

On the 2-CD version, Weiland offers the soaring vibe of "Missing Cleveland" and "Crash," the slick new wave of "Blind Confusion," a psychedelic grind on "She Sold Her System," and the funky electro vibe of "Fame."

"Blister On My Soul" could have been recorded by Dramarama, "Killing Me Sweetly" is a delicious acoustic ditty complete with strings, and he drops a trippy start-and-stop groove on "Hyper-Fuzz-Funny-Car."

He hits several notes of humility ("Somethings Must Go This Way," "Pictures and Computers (I'm Not Superman)") and lightly wails "Please God save me from drowning/Please God keep me breathing" on "Sentimental Halos."

Weiland always seemed resigned to the rock star fate, but on "Happy in Galoshes" he comes across as far more reflective and forward looking.

CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: Mixing soft acoustic guitar with a surprisingly delightful banjo on "Tangle With Your Mind," Weiland hits a subtle country-rock vibe that's completely contagious.