Little Annie and the Italic label seem like an ill-suited match-up, since Italic -- while owing a debt to dub reggae production techniques -- has based its discography on lush, spare, electronic dance music. The veteran artist disassociates herself from the rhythm section of On-U Sound's
Doug Wimbish and
Skip McDonald to work with
Khan, Jammin' Unit, and even former
Bad Seed and
Gun Club member
Kid Congo Powers on
Little Annie & the Legally Jammin'. The revolving crew she works with here proves to be just as supportive as her usual partners. Longtime followers of
Annie's sorcerous delivery will find her to be in top form throughout, her streetwise cross between spoken word, rapping, and easeful purring magnetic throughout. A positive diversion for both label and artist. (Someone get
Annie in touch with
Rhythm & Sound. Quick.) ~ Andy Kellman