Record Boy Ink: When a group with a distinctive style like Luscious Jackson makes a leap into a more mainstream sound, they are either selling out or broadening their horizons. I think "Electric Honey" (Grand Royal/Capitol) represents the latter. The women of Luscious Jackson, now a trio, take a different direction on "Electric Honey" and dang if it don�t sound like a happy one. Some of the tracks sound like an updated take on the late �70s when disco and new wave were dancing around each other, occasionally ending up in one place�like, say Blondie (Deborah Harry coincidentally appears on the song "Fantastic Fabulous"). Jill Cunniff and Gabby Glaser, L.J.�s writers, are apparently in fine spirits, great voice and not afraid to celebrate on record. What I�ve always liked about this band is the combination of their irresistible funky tracks with their sultry, street smart vocals, all presented with a rock n� roll attitude. "Electric Honey" tones down the �tude, replacing it with an upbeat atmosphere. Tracks like "ladyfingers", "Devotion", the above mentioned "Fantastic Fabulous" and "Space Diva" rock hard but don�t threaten. "Alien Lover" and "Summer Daze" aren�t only funky, they�re (Thanks Phil Hartman) SASSY! This is a perfect summer record; It just feels good, bright and loaded with obvious charms. In order to deal with criticism of selling out, Luscious Jackson should make their next record a little darker� but release it in the winter please! |