If you want a band that will leave you spinning in your shoes, then look no further than Blondie. At its inception in 1974, it was originally thought of as a new wave punk band, but the band defied attempts to lock it down into one genre. The band currently consists of Deborah Harry (vocals), Chris Stein (guitar), Clem Burke (drums), Matt Katzbohen (keyboards), Leigh Foxx (bass) and Tommy Kessler (guitar). After eight years out of the studio, the band is back and better than ever with a wide range of sounds that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Panic of Girls is a blend of new songs and old with an appreciation for the urban versatility and adventurous spirit that sets this band apart. Chris Stein specially commissioned the cover of the album from Dutch cult artist Chris Berens. It completely reflects the feel of the album.
“Mother” was co-written with Kato Khandwala. Complex melodies and an electro pop sound pave the way for Deborah Harry’s amazing vocals. There is a frantic energy throughout the song that recaptures the new wave punk style we know so well with a modern 21st century electronic twist. The track cascades into a sound blended with steady drums and synthesized keyboard that carry you into the rest of the song. If you watch the attached video you may get a surprise. Mother, the legendary West End nightclub where the band was performing gets swarmed by zombies. How much more perfect could this song get? Tight guitar lines, aggressive drums pacing the background and soaring vocals make this an amazing track. As Blondie plays, the zombies take a chomp out of the crowd and eventually munch down on the band, turning everyone into a shambling zombie horde. This song had a beat that was unforgettable and the composition was literally to die for.
“Girlie Girlie” is a reggae tempo from 1985 made popular in the UK by Sophia George. The drums lead in and immediately you get a feel for summer on the beach. The syncopated rhythm whisks you away as Harry begins to sing, telling a “young man, you’re too girlie girlie. You just flash around the world.” I admit to making an assumption about that, but when listening further I had to laugh. It is about a girl crazy boy who has a girl in every port all over the world. That is one of the things I love about Blondie. You think you are listening to one thing, and a minute later, you realize it is something else. The song is catchy, with an uplifting beat, drums that make you want to move, guitar and keyboard that make you long for one of those fruity drinks with an umbrella in it, and a giggle midway from Harry as she gets into the fun. This song will make you happy.
“Wipe Off My Sweat” was co-written by Cuban artist Paradise N. Efecto. This song has a more Latin flair than some of the others on this album. Beirut bandleader Zach Condon is on trumpet. Incredible guitar riffs start the track pulsing into a deep Latin beat, with lyrics in high energy Spanglish. Think Disco Latin. Vivacious guitar riffs and drums build an infectious energy and create a steady beat to dance to. “Don’t stop for anything at all” is one of the only parts of the song I understood, and you know, I really agree. Don’t stop, Blondie. Not for anything.
For thirty seven years Blondie has been kicking butt and taking names. Starting out as an underestimated punk band, they quickly broke free of the mold, but not the funky spirit that makes their songs original and oh so vibrant. Bringing back their trademark new wave style, they add some futuristic elements and fresh energy. Every single song is amazing. I can’t tell you how many times I have spun Panic of Girls. I just keep hitting the replay button and the fun goes on and on. If you are a Blondie fan at all, you have to get this CD. If you are new to Blondie, then its time you got acquainted.
Key Tracks – Wipe Off My Sweat, Mother (Mix6 Orig Voc), Girlie Girlie
Dana Wright-Muzikreviews.com Staff
September 13, 2011