The rape and murder of
the Gits' lead singer, Mia Zapata, was the catalyst for this benefit recording with
Joan Jett stepping in on vocals. This record is not a quiet, melancholic tribute, but rather a full-on assault of angst and pain. "Sign of the Crab" opens the album with a galloping guitar riff that is matched by
Jett's quickened vocals. This formula comes back again with gale-like potency on "Spear & Magic Helmet," which lyrically expresses the rage that the band feels about the tragedy.
Jett eerily sings with the late Zapata's recorded voice on the track "Whirlwind," bringing to light the impact of the loss. Powerful tracks filled with gravity and poignant lyrics make this a unique album that is appropriate given the genesis of the project. ~ Erik Crawford