Reading allmusic.com's embarrassing review of this album (1.5 out of 5 stars), I was really shocked. Obviously, this is a record which polarizes both critics and fans, but I think we ought to be fair. The reality is that"Behind the mask" is a delightful exception to FM's later-era sound."Tango in the night" was inconsistent and weird, showing that Lindsey's influence was probably becoming too big. However,"Behind the mask" is an attempt to go back to a more organic and less lightweight sound."Save me" and the title track are among Christine's best songs ever, and"Affairs of the heart" proves that Stevie's voice is still good. Billy and Rick add some new color to FM's sound with the rockabilly of"When the sun..", the psychedelic"In the back..", and the classic rock of"Stand on..". All in all, there's absolutely no reason for bashing this album as 'uninspired' or 'lackluster'. I recommend you to check out Rick Vito's solo album"King of hearts", with backing vocals by Stevie on two songs.