The Slits- Trapped Animal (Narnack Rec)
After a 25 year hiatus, The Slits are back with their first disc in over two decades, almost coinciding with a book about the band ('Typical Girls? The Story Of The Slits' by Zoe Street Howe), both hitting in the streets this fall. Though a 3 song EP surfaced in recent years, 'Trapped Animal' is the first significant release from these British punks since 1981.
Forever known as being one of the most influential female fronted punk bands, The Slits successfully merged reggae into their frantic, bold, unrelenting punk assault with the the album 'Cut' 30 years ago. Continuing with that formula, 'Trapped Animal' expands on their trademark sound with the addition of experimental and ethnic sounds, injecting some R&B and electronica, too.
With 2/3 of the original line up (the newer member is the drummer from The Sex Pistols daughter), this disc quickly establishes The Slits patented sound, but it's far from simply rehashing the past; this time around The Slits are more angular and tight but still staying true to their roots.
A very welcomed return, this is a great disc and hopefully the beginning of a lot more from these luminaries...
