Thrill Kisser, The

Careful, these rocktronic scientists are not to be confused with the Bakersfieldsian, alt-countryboys, Tin Star from the mid-'80s. This late-'90s London disco craze band has been a little irresponsibly compared to Brian Eno, but for the right reasons -- they have an energetic, outer space, erotic ambience with occasional flashes of attitude, so they don't get shoved to the side of the CD changer. Formed in 1996, original bandmembers continue to pump out appealing, memorable magic that doesn't neglect trace elements of excellent musicianship. Thrill Kisser's best cuts include "Head," a fantastically danceable, electronica-pop with pelvis-thrusting percussion; "Disconnected Child" features fast repeti-funk sequences that are unremarkable, but the vocals are appealing and simple without apology. "Raincheck" is simply, sweetly melodic, tambouriney, radio pop that makes all the girls go "Ahh." Excellent additional cuts: "Viva," "Going Slow," "Fast Machine," and "Destruction" -- and that's all the cuts on the record! There you go! Far more accessible than the band's overhyped, badass, techno-dizzy image. ~ Becky Byrkit|