On the Way to the Sky is typically uneven with a handful of strong songs that were big adult contemporary hits: "Yesterday's Songs," "On the Way to the Sky," and "Be Mine Tonight." The character of these songs is no different from his earlier adult pop efforts, but the production may be too slick for many listeners' tastes. Throughout the album Diamond revisits some of his favorite themes ? rambling, traveling minstrelsy, the transcendent power of music ? which he sings about in his dramatic, gravelly style. Dedicated fans will find much to like, but those who take a more conditional approach to Diamond's music will be put off by the ultra-commercial sheen. The album even has its own "Knackelflerg" with the unusual "Fear of the Marketplace."