VOODOO EVOLVES : * * * * <i> Great Balls of Fire</i> * * * <i> Good Vibrations</i> * * <i> Maybe Baby</i> * <i> Running on Empty : </i>

* * * * “HAPPY PLANET.” Wall of Voodoo. I.R.S. Cynics’ choice Wall of Voodoo will never, ever be characterized as “happy” campers, but the music here has turned more pleasant by a long shot. And that may be a big minus for many. Abrasive elements have been phased out in favor of a smoother, blander wash of keyboards, and the distinctive guitar parts have unfortunately been placed way down in the mix. Nonetheless, the near-symphonic synthesizer sounds that have largely replaced the cheesier ones are used with some innovation, and show the band willing to evolve stylistically. Skip the pointless remake of the Beach Boys’ “Do It Again,” but listen for these highlights: “Hollywood the Second Time,” singer Andrew Prieboy’s evocative impression of a man moving from back East back to L.A. with all the anticipation of an ex-con on a return bus trip to the slammer; and “Elvis Bought Dora a Cadillac,” which uses Western stylings to turn a local legend into the stuff of which true myths are made.