simply put, matt schickele is making the best music thats getting made these days. don't get me wrong, cities filled with lights is kind of a terrible record--and much of it should have been dumped long before the album was ever conceived. but, schickele's GREAT songs, and there are several on this record and on April/November, show a depth of originality and gut-popping emotion that makes it well worth sifting through the other stuff. unfortunately, from what i've heard, schickele's now playing williamsburg bluegrass and hasn't come out with anything in awhile. but he's a unique talent and i'd encourage you to check out his records (and those of his earlier band, beekeeper) if you like good music and have a functional heart and mind.