Gossip Standing in the Way of Control LP (Hot Pink Vinyl)

The first thing that strikes you is the rhythm. The Gossip have been making punks dance since they debuted in 2000, long before dance punk existed. Soulful and jagged, you can hear everything from Dischord to Motown in Brace's playing. With the addition of drummer Hannah Blilie (Shoplifting, ex-Chromatics) they added a thundering beat for the kids to dance to on the corners and in the clubs. The next thing that smacks you is Beth's voice, all the guttural blues of the South is in that inimitable instrument. It resonates with the confidence that is in her lyrics asking people to hold on just a little bit longer, re-assuring the youth that there are others out there, and spitting in the face of all who say otherwise! Standing in the Way of Control, their third album, was recorded by Guy Picciotto (Fugazi) at Seattle's Bear Creek. From heartbreakers like "Coal to Diamonds" to the anthemic title track, released as a single with a Le Tigre remix, the band is unafraid to put it all out there and take their audience to new places. This is the sound of a band destroying and surpassing all expectations placed on them.

...a lean but remarkably diverse album that shows that the Gossip have found plenty of ways to come into their own.