Musically, the band set out to differentiate itself from other third wave ska groups, an effort that was met with mixed results. An "AllMusic" reviewer found that the band's approach was "status quo", pointing out that the sound of "Handbook for the Sellout" was similar to Reel Big Fish's "Sell Out." Another reviewer found that the artwork (which was produced by Douglas TenNapel) and production were superior to the masses of ska bands that had begun to flood the market. In any event, the music is an evolution from the sound found on the group's debut, moving toward a less-punkish feel and incorporating more intricate horn arrangements.