From the opening notes of “Love Is for Lovers,” this is obviously no ordinary dB’s record. The group, now pared down to a trio fronted by Peter Holsapple, have stripped away the arty quirks of the first two albums, opting instead for straight-ahead, rootsy rockers and country-rock romps. Amid the more muscular, guitar-based sound, Holsapple turns in his same instantly endearing melodies, especially on the album highlight, “Lonely Is as Lonely Does,” their most beautiful song to date. [CD reissues on both Rhino and Collectors' Choice add two tracks: "Darby Hall" and an extended remix of "A Spy in the House of Love."] – Chris Woodstra