With the help of
Chris Stein
(
Blondie
),
Iggy Pop
attempts a self-consciously eclectic musical exploration with
Zombie Birdhouse
. By and large, the attempts are admirable, as
Iggy
turns in a set of songs that range from social commentary and urban folk to bizarre poetry and philosophical ruminations. Instead of singing,
alterantely raps and sings over sonic backdrops that have touches of hard rock, folk, and electronic music. It's an ambitious effort that never quite works and keeps listeners at a distance. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine