At times they sing about the same topics as usual--screwed up relationships, depression, etc--but with more passion and energy than the typical band. But much of the album is devoted to more unusual material: vampirism, evolution, heresy.

No matter what the lyrics are about, the music and vocals are so awesome you won't care what they're singing about. The lead singer has a unique, emotive voice which is prominent throughout most of the songs. They also have a fantastic song on the Crow: City Of Angels Soundtrack. The song is "Paper Dress" and it is incredibly powerful.

Overall, this is an incredible album that fans of groups like Nirvana (aggressive post-punk rock) and Live (with its catchy hooks and emotional vocals) must check out.


Genius Overlooked   November 16, 2004
Joseph B. Pannell (Medford, OR)
11 out of 12 found this review helpful

In college, this was me and my crew's staple. We first found them through a friend who had seen them play small clubs in the Texas scene. Eventually we watched as they became minor Buzz band stars thanks to MTV and the "alternative" movement of the early 90's. The band simply rocks. They write great lyrics, which range from creepy story telling, to introspective, hurt looks at lost faith. Todd Lewis' voice has a desperate urgency that keeps you holding on for more. This album will stand the test of time. It was without a doubt one of the best of the 90's. And if you ever had the chance to see them live, you experinced the energy, talent and realness that made them a fan favorite. Rest in peace Toadies.


No Vampires at Possum Kingdom   May 3, 2004
Kurt Schneider (Austin, TX United States)
7 out of 7 found this review helpful

OK, first things first: This album rocks. Heavy melodic riffs and a great moody singer. Great first album, too bad the second was so mediocre. Todd Lewis, the singer, is currently with Burden Brothers, a Dallas area band who puts on a great live show.

On to my point: "Possum Kingdom" is not about vampires, despite what goth fanboys want to believe. (...)

"The kids have been coming up and telling us that the song fits with all this Vampire stuff, but we didn't even get that. We actually have gotten these vampire-looking people at the shows. I think that we were oblivious to vampire references. Actually, it's just a ghost story. "Possum Kingdom" is a lake by our houses in Texas. You know, in Texas you hang out with your family and tell these ghost stories that are kinda, almost true. People believe those folk tales, and that was one of them. Or, it was based on one and we just took it somewhere else."

I think by "ghost story" she's referring to one of those "this guy raped and killed a bunch of girls here" stories told around a campfire.

Anyway, buy this album. I've had to buy three, since I keep lending it out and not getting it back....


Kissing a toad.   May 14, 2005
Angel (Calumet City, IL United States)
8 out of 9 found this review helpful

This Toadies album is an all time favorite of mine. It is a shame that only Possum Kingdom was recognized as this whole cd was phenominal. I think the Toadies will have a hard time topping this album.


compelling hard rock   January 2, 2001
Jessica (Chicago IL)
5 out of 5 found this review helpful

This album is alive: it pushes, drives, twists, and turns all over. The vocals convey the despair, fear, frustration, and elation of the lyrics, and force you to have some emotional reaction. There is such a strong power in the guitar, bass, and drums that just makes you feel like the songs are really moving. The thick guitar is awesome. This album feels just like a classic hard rock album from the 70s. Basically, this album is awesome. It energizes you. The lyrics make you think; the vocals force you to become aware of the raw, animalistic emotions inherent in all of us. This is a must have album for anyone that likes rock music.