But on this record, Cake explores the world of drum programming, synths and moogs, while simultaneously exchanging the major chords and pop hooks of their previous work for slightly darker melodies. Think 70's cop show themes turned into postmodern love songs. After three records, changing the formula was probably called for. And by all indications, someone's been tinkering with the recipe. The upside is that Cake is funkier than ever. The down side is that there don't seem to be as many musical influences on Comfort Eagle. There are no sugary pop gems, country weepers or slow waltzes. And in spots, replacing the trumpet or guitar with keyboards makes the songs seem naked and awkward, while the melodies aren't shimmering as brightly as they have in the past. The end result is a group of songs that are still undeniably catchy, but not as fun.