Open shrink wrap. Dig out CD. Insert in CD player. Listen.

This isn't the Butch Walker your ears met in 1999 with Marvelous 3's "Freak of the Week." This isn't even the Butch Walker from 2002's debut solo album, "Left of Self-Centered."

No, this man has experienced many things. Many, many more things. In addition to having a hit song with the Marvelous 3, touring everywhere, and playing on television, this man has also experienced the break-up of that band, a nervous breakdown, writing and producing for pop stars and rock stars, and destruction of his home due to wildfire... just to name a few.

I can't say as I blame him for changing it up a bit from the past. This album touches on the indie side of Walker, perhaps, even, with a bit of twang. But, don't you worry. Just listen closely and you'll find Butch's wit sprinkled all throughout the album.

"Don't You Think Someone Should Take You Home" definitely has that twang and seriousness to it, though with lyrics like "her smile looks like a jack-o-lantern / trying not to cry," you can't help but smile because of the way Walker describes things to create an image in your head.

The voice I've come to know and love from Butch Walker really shines through on "She Likes Hair Bands." With lyrics such as "she likes hair bands / on satellite radio. but i was in one / so it's a little too close to home" remind the listener of his South Gang days, all the while giving you a little booty shakin' music in the middle of the album. The acapella chorus at the end of the song just really gives the listener another reason to fall in love with Walker's voice all over again (or for the first time).

One of the catchiest songs on the album, and possibly my favorite, is "They Don't Know What We Know." This song really reminds me of a great Jellyfish tune. It takes me on a trip down memory lane to the music I listened to as a teenager, around the time I really got into good music.

Additionally, "Pretty Melody" definitely describes itself. With the orchestral music alongside the rythmic drums and piano, the song is definitely one that will etch itself into your memory.

"I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart" was written by someone who is anything but a "tattooed tragedy." Tattooed, yes. Tragedy, far from it. Walker has risen above his obsticles to create music that is true to his heart, even if it is not a hit like those he helps to pen for others.

Review by: Jennifer Long

Additional links:
- Purchase I Liked It Better When You Had No Heart
- Butch Walker on Myspace
- Butch Walker's official Website