On “Pretty,” the lead singer reinforces someone’s innate value by repeating the lyric “You’re so pretty the way you are.” She also practices “tough love” whenever the man in her life demonstrates a lack of respect or faithfulness (“Linger,” “Wanted,” “Put Me Down,” “Still Can’t . . .”). “Sunday” examines the shortcomings of one-sided love. These tunes are honest (if not terribly optimistic) about the trials some relationships endure.
Several songs present dysfunctional relationships without offering positive alternatives. Depending on how it’s taken, the album’s title could inspire young people to experiment with risky behavior.
The Cranberries rely on a brooding, at times eerie, musical style typical of their Irish rock roots. Lyrically, the band does an admirable job of defining social ills. Unfortunately, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? comes up short of providing hopeful solutions.
