by Stephen Thomas Erlewine

The Offspring's self-titled debut album is a rawer, harder-edged collection than their breakthrough set Smash, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's a better record. Although it makes a more convincing argument for the band's punk credibility -- the record lacks the metal guitar crunch that dominated Smash -- The Offspring doesn't have any songs driven by hooks as catchy as "Keep 'Em Separated" or "Self Esteem.," nor does it have the consistency of Smash. A handful of tracks make a lasting impression, but most of The Offspring is notable for its surface style, not its substance.