It"s sad that Dokken"s image forced them into that dreaded hair-band category+ because they"ve always been more talented than most of the groups of that era. Despite major lineup changes--original bassist Jeff Pilson has been replaced by Barry Sparks and former Europe guitarist John Norum has stepped in for Reb Beach--the band has retained much of their signature sound. Don Dokken likes to work with fiery guitarists who counter his soothing vocals and melodies+ and he has again found that complementary balance. <I>Long Way Home</I> picks up the back-to-basics style of their 1999 release+ <I>Erase the Slate</I>. Diehards will be delighted with the heavy "Under the Gun+" as it sounds like an outtake from <I>Under Lock and Key</I>. The band goes deeper on the midtempo "Everybody Needs (To Be with Someone)+" which has a touch of Beatles-esque pop. Of course there are ballads+ and the pretty "Goodbye My Friend+" intertwining acoustic guitars and piano+ stands out as one of the album"s strongest cuts+ along with "There Was a Time+" with its gorgeous harmonies and irresistible chorus. There"s something here for every fan+ and it all still sounds like Dokken. <I>--Gail Flug</I>