3 Doors Down energetic, somewhat cliche on CD

Fist-pumping arena rock is a favorite target for critics, who remain somewhat baffled as to why these bands continue to fill major venues and play upward of 300 shows a year.

Truth be told, the post-grunge scene sounds increasingly bland and repetitive -- making it hard for any band of that genre to stand out.

On their self-titled fourth disc, 3 Doors Down offer the strongest collection of their career, and fortunately separate themselves a bit from the mainstream rock crowd -- think Nickelback and Puddle of Mudd for clarity (coincidentally, former drummer Daniel Adair left to join Nickelback and his replacement, Greg Upchurch, is a former member of Puddle of Mudd).

3 Doors Down maintain their fiery mix of southern hard rock and bic-lighter ballads with pulsating energy.

There's no denying a slew of arena-ready standouts, including the muscular "Train," the uplifting "It's The Only One You've Got," and the 80s-ish charm of "Runaway." Lest we forget the hard-rockin' ladies, they're sure to fall for the soft touch of "Let Me Be Myself" and "Your Arms Feel Like Home."

The band also hits a grand slam with lead single "It's Not My Time," a track that's already dominating rock radio with its ridiculously catchy riff and crowd-pleasing chorus.

3 Doors Down aren't going to win over any harsh critics with this effort, but they probably have another platinum seller and sold-out tour on their hands.

CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: Disc closer "She Don't Want The World" is a moody tale of longing backed by minimal guitar and slick overdubs that sounds nothing like 3 Doors Down, who should try branching out like this more often.