Modern rock act Third Eye Blind has dubbed its third Elektra album "Crystal Baller" and plans to release it in mid-summer. It's the follow-up to 1999's "Blue," which debuted at No. 40 on The Billboard 200 and has sold 1.2 million copies in the U.S. to date, according to SoundScan. That album's single "Never Let You Go" reached No. 14 on the Hot 100 and No. 4 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart.

Frontman Stephan Jenkins is producing "Crystal Baller," with assistance from bassist Arion Salazar and engineer Jason Carmer. Up-and-coming rocker Andrew W.K. guests on the track "F***ed Up Kid," while the Moldy Peaches' Kimya Dawson adds vocals to "Self Righteous." In what is to say the least an unusual pairing of influences, Jenkins describes the sound of "Crystal Baller" as "our continuing fascination with Lou Reed and club rhythms."

The group has two live shows lined up in the coming weeks, beginning with a previously announced April 13 appearance the Beyond 2002 Festival in Miami. Third Eye Blind will also play a May 4 hometown show in San Francisco at the Palace of Legion of Honor.

 

-- Jonathan Cohen, N.Y.