Outfits like
the Frumpies
are why the
indie rock
and
punk
scenes have such reputations for incestuousness. At the heart of the band are
Bikini Kill
's
Kathi Wilcox
Tobi Vail
, who leave their respective bassist and drummer roles to take up joint duty guitar and vocals. They're joined by
guitarist
Billy Karren
Bratmobile
drummer
Molly Neuman
(playing their usual instruments), along with occasional help from
Make-Up
bassist
Michelle Mae
on guitar.
Frumpie One Piece
is a compilation of singles from a bevy of labels. While each of the player's original bands grew more sophisticated with time,
keep their sound down and dirty. Screeched vocals, rudimentary slashes at the guitar, and basement production values are the order of the day, whether the tracks were recorded in 1992 or '96. Like
the Minutemen
, sometimes
comment on their disaffection just as effectively with song titles as with lyrics:
"I Just Wanna Puke on the Stereo,"
"Whatshisname Hearts the Frumpies,"
"Weary Ingenues and Snotty Brats,"
"Fake Antagonism Rules, Okay."
Though it's non-essential,
is a handy compendium and surely of interest for fans of the
riot grrrl
community. ~ Chris Nelson