No Discretion is Tim Lee’s second solo album since resurfacing from 10 years of self-imposed exile. But don’t come to the disc expecting the jangling power pop that was his stock in trade with The Windbreakers during the 1990s. Lee is older, and he has started to explore his guitar-driven Southern roots. Melodically enchanting moments abound - the shimmer-and-crunch of “Speak Up Girl” is particularly satisfying. But for the most part, Lee - a far better guitarist than singer - has taken a rootsier path pocked with songs that swerve closer to the harder, narrative edge of, say, the Drive-By Truckers, than to any flights of jingle-jangle nostalgia.

The songs span three years and several producers, thus lack sustained cohesion. It isn’t until mid-disc that the album finds focus. Some songs are little more than blueprints. Others surpass potential - “The Rain Came Down” is great by any standard.

No Discretion was not made by the Tim Lee of old. He has moved on. It’s not perfect, but it’s good. So join him on his journey, if you so choose. It’s worth the leap of faith.

- Ed Bumgardner, relish staff writer