String Quartet Tribute to Offspring features 11 of the veteran punk-pop combo's songs performed instrumentally by Kristarah, the California-based duo of cellist
Sarah O'Brien and violinist Kristen Autry. Slight production touches, mostly percussion, are also added. The performances range from subdued ("Self Esteem") to surging ("Defy You"), and manage to pull strong melodies out of most of the material. "Kids Aren't Alright" and "Hit That" are both highlights; scrubbed of its smarmy electro-bop lather, the latter becomes a hectic, unpredictable number that unveils a sweeping chorus. ~ Johnny Loftus