12 Haunted Episodes

Recorded in Saugerties, New York, the album was produced by Parker.[6][7] He chose to write the songs in an open G tuning, after being annoyed when someone advised creating an album similar in style to the rock and roll of Squeezing Out Sparks.[1] Parker thought that he was able to sing more "naturally" with the new tuning.[8] He spent five hours recording the demo, then decided a few days later to add overdubs to it with other musicians.[9][10]

Many songs are about the work of maintaining romantic love.[11] "Disney's America" is about the proposed theme park.[12] "Haunted Episodes" added a flute to the instrumentation.[13] "Force of Nature" quotes Bob Dylan's "She Belongs to Me".[14]

Professional ratings

Review scores
Source	Rating
Daily Breeze	[13]
The Encyclopedia of Popular Music	[15]
The Indianapolis Star	[16]
MusicHound Rock: The Essential Album Guide	[17]
Orlando Sentinel	[18]
Rolling Stone	[19]
Spin Alternative Record Guide	6/10[20]
Martin C. Strong	5/10[21]
USA Today	[7]

The Orlando Sentinel wrote that "Parker's famous acerbic wit is either missing or misplaced, and he seems to be low on hooks at the moment."[18] The Philadelphia Inquirer determined that "the acoustic-flavored tunes tend toward folk-rock, and the usually pugnacious Brit focuses on his tender and introspective side."[22] Rolling Stone stated: "Autumnal in mood, gracious and honest, this is music of a clean, unsentimental maturity."[19]

The Washington Post opined that "it's doubtful any other album this year will bring as much insight and passion to the subject of adult romance."[12] The Indianapolis Star concluded that Parker "abandons vitriolic irony for the more mature, and less memorable, perspective of a contented grownup."[16] The Guardian noted the "comfy tastefulness" and labeled the album "one for designer bedsits."[23]