Blonde Redhead Misery Is A Butterfly

It is almost impossible to talk about Blonde Redhead without using the words "integrity" and "earnest". Having seem them live a few weeks ago, I was struck by the stony-faced concentration of this Italo-Japanese US-based three piece. Kazu Makino plays bass, keys and vocals and Simone and Amedeo Pace (twin brothers) between them play drums, guitar and vocals. As with their live performance, this album suggests musicians hunched over instruments, playing just the right note, and hitting just the right emotional key. It is never fun, but is always compelling.

At times they sound like a similarly serious bunch, Smashing Pumpkins; elsewhere Sonic Youth comparisons are not a mile off. They are set apart by the sweetness-and-light vocals of both Makino and whichever Pace twin it is who sings. Strong opener Elephant Woman details the musical and emotional soundscapes to be charted; boasts a slowly building menace, before Doll is Mine has an almost operatic, baroque twirl.

I wouldn't suggest playing this album at a party, unless it has been agreed beforehand that no jokes will be told and smiling is forbidden. This is a band intent on an arty, serious mission. With Pink Love they also show a talent for epic duets, while on closer Equus they produce a fantastic obsessive love song that skirts close to Patti Smith territory. Get this album, and while you're at it get a three-button black leather jacket with thin lapels, some filterless cigarettes, and practice your scowl. Seriously, it's the look for the summer. Over and out.