Despite this reinvention, a small attempt is made to realize Gwen’s signature style. For example, in “Platinum Blonde Life,” she attempts to ignore the outside world as she writes, “I want a platinum blonde life, so I keep bleaching out the color.” Depth is not something this album has, but it was never intended to: the closing track, “Rock Steady,” exudes a feeling of naïveté even during its most serious moments.

Yet, with the exception of “Underneath it All,” with its bass guitar licks that are “oh so No Doubt,” the vibe is -- surprisingly enough -- happy. The original inventor of “bitter, pissed-off, ex-girlfriend, man bashing, punk, with a touch of California summer” music has gone stray, even insane. And while no one would object to her being in love, the answer is probably not turning to the ‘80’s and its unquestioned ruler, Prince, who duets on “Waiting Room.”

With little exception, the album seems like an attempt to prove No Doubt’s versatility and immense talent rather than one that will satisfy listeners both old and new.