What’s the big deal?
Kim and Kelley. The Deal sisters are back for the first time in seven years, with a new rhythm section and a sober outlook. The disc is drastically different from anything they’ve done before. Mellow and sparse, it’s a far cry from the manic pop we’re used to from the sometimes-Pixies bassist.
Who’s behind it?
Super-producer Steve Albini. He’s worked with Kim before in numerous capacities. He’s also worked with the man that wanted to be Frank Black, Kurt Cobain (among many, many others).
Is it worth a damn?
For the casual listener, not so much. For those of us who enjoy a band that evolves and doesn’t deliver the same disc time after time, yes. A sprawling drone follows you throughout the record, on the repetitive “Bang On” (a tune that describes Kim’s relationship status, or lack thereof) and the closing title track that lulls you off to sleep. Teetering on the edge of rocking out are only a few tracks, “German Studies” is sing
along heaven, while “Walk it Off” is classic and punchy. “No Way” could easily be the TV theme for a new cop dramedy, while the strangely compelling “Overglazed” finds Kim delivering her best Perry Farrell. For completists and excited newcomers, or fans of Blonde Readhead.
