With possible exception to Lewis Black, there is no topical comic as important as David Cross. Hell, there probably aren't many political commentators as important as David Cross. The irreverent spokesman for a jaded generation returns with his second album on Sub Pop, and it is both shorter (a single disc) and leagues ahead of his previous effort.

From the opening, the starkly honest, cynical, and downright blunt master of the turn of phrase takes pot shots at every aspect of popular and political culture in America. Which may sound quaint or entertaining to some, but it is sincerely enlightening (ok, perhaps not his opening bit about babies, but hey, it's honest). From content to appearance, Cross is the emo posterchild for comedy (the big rimmed glasses don't help this), but is nothing short of pure genius, with sharp whit cutting into such fundamental topics as abortion and the war in Iraq to the lesser known political fiascos of recent history, such as our current administration's commitment to building a space station in the midst of one of the worst global-political and environmental times in history. He is crass, straightforward and, most importantly, right. ANYONE debating voting, or who gives a damn about this country, or who wants to laugh their asses off, needs to own this record.

I realize most of you won't buy a comedy record. I'm not surprised, it's not like comedians get the luxurious rock-star life (unless you're British, like Eddie Izzard or Ali G). But seriously, buy this one. I'll even link you to a place to buy it. It's that good.

-Todd Berry