Bratmobile: Girls Get Busy : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

Just in time for summer cruising comes a brand spanking new Bratmobile. This year's model (the second since the group reformed in 1999) fills out the trio's feisty surf rock sound (Erin Smith on guitar, Molly Neuman on drums, and singer, Allison Wolfe, the ever-engaging cheerleader with a social conscience) with keyboards and even a bass, but it's the lyrical sentiments that make this platter a blast. On the opening track, "I'm in the Band," Wolfe assures you, "I'm not a tortured artist," as the band keeps up a beat guaranteed to make you start frugging, with a further promise that "It's not market-tested." Thank God! The Brats also understand the power of deflecting criticism with a good punchline, as in the chorus of "What's Wrong With You?": "Baby, I don't hate men/Maybe I just hate you." The group's serious side also comes through on the anti-war "Shop for America" and "Shut Your Face," which addresses sexual violence. But if you need something to help you dance your pain away, the Brats have got it for you right here. "Girls make music/We're here to stay," they vow. Let's hope so.

GILLIAN G. GAAR
(May 23, 2002)