While most side-projects serve as a tool for an artist to show another side of himself, Chris Walla seems to be perfectly happy with what he’s doing in his other band. And so his first real solo album “Field Manual” doesn’t sound all that different from what he does in Death Cab For Cutie. Yes, some of the lyrics on here are politically charged which isn’t something Ben Gibbard is known for. But musically, all of the songs on here could’ve fitted perfectly on any Death Cab album. I’m sure fans won’t mind (I know I don’t) but I doubt he’ll gain any new fans. As for me, I like all of the songs on “Field Manual” but at the same time I’m a bit disappointed that I didn’t get to hear another side of Chris Walla. But hey, this one will tie me over just fine until the new Death Cab album comes out in May.