It’s may be difficult for some to believe but old habits die hard.

Such is the case with the music world.

We’ve seen the sudden rebirth in 90s-type bands and the on and off emo scene.

The question music buffs have to ask themselves is whether or not the world is ready for more 90s music and poppy goodness.

Ready or not, fans will be surprised that 90s alt/pop rock icon, Fountains of Wayne, is back and still rocking to the high-school-like lyrics and power riffs.

The band that gave audiences “Stacy’s Mom” and “Sink to the Bottom” is back with its latest collaboration, Traffic and Weather.

I must admit, with a repuation for 90s ear candy and one-hit-wonders, Fountains of Wayne may not come across as the band of the year nor a future player in new music.

Regardless, Traffic and Weather is fairly refreshing despite the expected sound.

The set kicks off with the Jersey-based band’s single, “Someone to Love.”

At first, the song doesn’t seem like something that Fountains of Wayne could create.

Then again, after returning to the music scene in 2005, who’s to judge whether old habits should remain?

After awhile, listeners will find the familiar voice of singer Chris Collingwood, accompanied by the simple style of guitar riffs.

However, some refreshing electronic effects complement the 90s sound of the song.

For a single, “Someone to Love” isn’t really that far off from another one-hit-wonder in the 90s, but really does have an undescribeable feel to it and may be fairly popular in the coming months.

“92 Subaru” brings the band back to its roots with edgy guitars similar to those found in a Bruce Springsteen hit.

Overall, the song is decent, but doesn’t make the mark in terms of uniqueness.

The song itself proves the 90s roots with its title.

Are 92 Subarus still common? The lyrics “I’m coming through in my late ’92 baby blue Subaru” speak for themselves.

A memorable “jet” guitar effect is even included in the song.

Although this effect was a key player in the 90s music revolution, its still nice to hear every now and then.

Even if Fountains of Wayne is stuck in a 90s mold, fans have to give the band credit for holding onto roots.

“Yolanda Hayes” is pretty refreshing with an upbeat piano melody and guitar riff.

Collingwood’s lyrics are unmistakable and give the song some redemption.

The song’s solo even breaks out into a short trumpet section that definitely gives Fountains of Wayne a more modern sound.

Even moreso is the album’s title cut “Traffic and Weather.”

The beginning is filled with some grungier guitar tones and unique lyrics compared to the previous tracks.

Songs like “Traffic and Weather” are the kind that can restart Fountains of Wayne and give it a more mature start to today’s competitive music industry.

Even more unique is “Fire In the Canyon.”

The song borders country and bluegrass and may make audiences wonder how a band can move from “Stacy’s Mom” to a country ballad.

The song is quite refreshing, though, as it does show the band is moving away from some of its normal 90s pop rock.

“This Better Be Good” continues the unique flow of music with triangle-based introduction not found with many modern bands.

Traditional guitar riffs follow with Collingwood’s usual warming lyrics. Listeners will soon find that the sound sounds surprisingly similar to many by the Beach Boys.

The song’s solo, though, shows that the band may be more than just emotional lyrics and simple melodies.

The mature guitar solo is unique and easy to listen to.

“Revolving Dora” continues the album’s 90s feel but with a softer sound that is actually enjoyable.

More soft rock is included in “Michael and Heather at The Baggage Claim.” Despite the unusual title, the track is calming and unique.

The track gives a nice balance to what could have been a disasterous album.

Quick piano beats follow in “Strapped for Cash.”

Trumpet and electronic effects complement the piano and give an easy-going opener for Collingwood’s lyrics.

Surprisingly, the song has a completely different tone than the rest of the album. Instead of 90s pop, the song takes more of an electronic stance.

The rest of the album takes the same stance and really brings back the enjoyment of new music and new electronica styles.

The album finishes with another country ballad of sorts, titled “Seatbacks and Traytables.”

The new and sound is rather unusual, but when was the band usual at all? “Traffic and Weather” may be a new attempt by Fountains of Wayne, but the band still seems to have a lot of kinks to work out.

Depening on fans’ level of experimentation, the album may or may not be worth the money.