What is surprising about this threesome is that, despite what seems like a limited sound base of piano, bass guitar and drums, they still conjure up songs which sound totally original. At only 40 minutes in length 'The Unauthorised Biography...' finds Ben Folds Five at the peak of their songwriting powers. Whereas on previous albums there has been some filler amongst the more memorable songs this album sounds like a seamless soundtrack of great American music. This time around their tunes are embellished with strings but once again it's mainman Ben Folds's way with a tune that stands out. 'Narcolepsy' is a thrilling opening song and should have been a hit; 'Army' achieved minor hit status and 'Mess' and 'Your Redneck Past' could have done the same with sufficient airplay. However, it is the slower-paced songs such as 'Jane', 'Don't Change Your Plans', 'Magic' and 'Regrets' which prove that this is the best Broadway soundtrack yet to be made.