With Vapid Drivel, Jason Hatfield assembles a new lineup of musicians to record his indie-oriented singer/songwriter material. More so than on Mendicant, Star Hustler's previous full-length, the arrangement moves away from guitar pop to allow for more orchestrated compositions on traditional instruments -- Hatfield's banjo work takes a major role -- and thanks to songwriting just as good as on Mendicant (and quite frequently better), Vapid Drivel makes a strong entry on the indie side of rock and pop. ~ Nitsuh Abebe, All Music Guide
