Smithereens go out on enjoyable `Date’> Group returns to basics on RCA debut

“A Date With the Smithereens” (RCA) — The Smithereens

The four members of the Smithereens have gone back to basics on their RCA debut. Reuniting with Don Dixon, who produced the group back in 1985, the Smithereens crackle with new-found energy on the 12 cuts of “A Date.”

Pat DiNizio, the group’s vocalist and primary songwriter, tackles such topics as the world’s first female serial killer (“Long Way Back Again”), the dying grunge scene (“Sick of Seattle”), the L.A. riots (“Love is Gone”) and questions of political right and wrong (“Gotti”).

Dinizio, in fine voice, also explores emotional quandaries in “War For My Mind,” “Everything I Have is Blue” and the album’s centerpiece, the Elvis Costello-like “Afternoon Tea.”

The Smithereens’ guitar rock flourishes thanks to guitarist Jim Babjak and Lou Reed, who guests of “Long Way Back Again” and “Point of No Return.” Bassist Mike Mesaros and drummer Dennis Diken build a strong foundation which allows the guitarists to flourish.

While none of the songs have the sheer hookiness of their 1989 hit “A Girl Like You,” “A Date” is solid from beginning to end.

The Smithereens have also had much to offer on their previous five albums, but perhaps “A Date” will lift them beyond cult status.