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This Island
11/03/2004 6:00 PM, Yahoo! Music
Rob O'Connor
With Bikini Kill, Kathleen Hanna made a name for herself as an uncompromising leader of indie-rock ethos and as a pioneer in the Riot Grrrl movement. She’s used Le Tigre, originally the backing band for her solo act Julie Ruin, to further her political and musical ambitions and the group’s first album for a major label -- a surprise to all, but mostly to her loyal following who’ve been working overtime figuring out the real meaning -- continues her brash behavior. However, by sitting ex-Cars frontman Ric Ocasek in the producer’s chair (Weezer, Guided By Voices) we’re guaranteed that tracks such as “On The Verge” and “Don’t Drink Poison” are strong on all counts. The additional recording budget and Ocasek’s attention to detail make for a stronger Le Tigre. You can finally hear the “pop” in all its meanings. Hanna’s even found her silly side as a cover of the Pointer Sisters’ “I’m So Excited” indicates. Hanna sounds like someone who’s ready to take the spotlight under her own terms.
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