It's all just a little bit of history repeating

‘(ONe)’
The Panic Channel
(Capitol)
‘(ONe)’ is a highly appropriate name for this album, because it’s the number of times too many that I’ve listened to it. You’d expect a new project involving former members of Jane’s Addiction to be an exciting, innovative and interesting venture. Think again. This album is simply mundane and clichéd. The Panic Channel seems to do nothing except borrow from the past, with sounds typical of Californian alternative rock bands of the 1980s and 1990s, such as Mötley Crüe, Rage Against The Machine and System Of A Down. While these bands, along with Jane’s Addiction, have played a role in creating that sound, The Panic Channel merely imitates it, and as a result, is incredibly obsolete. Perhaps I’ve missed something more subtle, intricate and sophisticated to this album, but I’m just not willing to find out if it means having to listen to it again.

The Panic Channel's Official Site
The Panic Channel's myspace


‘Revenge Of The Killer Slits’ EP
The Slits
(Exo)
I’m relieved to find that this is not a case of music greats being has-beens. Original UK 1970s punk chicks have recruited Paul Cook of The Sex Pistols and Marco Pittoni of Adam & The Ants to record some clever new tunes. While they haven’t abandoned their raw angry sound of old, there’s a savvy urban touch to this EP that shows that they’ve certainly evolved and aren’t stuck in the past. Old and new fans alike would appreciate that their attitude is as witty, sassy and in-your-face as ever, with the only disappointment perhaps being that the EP only comprises three tracks.

The Slits' Official Site
The Slits' myspace


‘The Best Of Fabienne Delsol & The Bristols’
Fabienne Delsol & The Bristols
(Damaged Goods/Shock)
This now split London garage punk band and their French leading lady are fantastic. The melodies and riffs are sweetly catchy, while Fabienne’s exquisite vocals are sexy, saucy and playful. It’s very retro and reminiscent of 1970s go-go, added with punk influence, and entirely clever and fun. This compilation includes songs from The Bristols’ only two albums as well as rare singles. It will be interesting to see future solo work from Fabienne Delsol.