Mindless Self Indulgence

Usually when a band is as image and attitude conscious as Mindless Self Indulgence, it means one thing; they're trying to compensate for lousy music. That isn't the case, however, for this NYC quartet. With a look that falls somewhere between the sacrilegious incarnation of Marilyn Manson and Sigue Sigue Sputnik, and a sound that incorporates elements of punk, metal and hyper-beat techno, MSI's major label debut is sure to confound some, offend many and tantalise everyone else. This 30-song offering is mostly the brainchild of vocalist/programmer Little Jimmy Urine, who uses this band as a platform for his profanity-laden satirical pokes at social norms. Of course, the danger is that songs with titles like "Faggot" and "Bitches" could be misinterpreted as homophobic or sexist, but the band goes to great lengths to make it clear that they shouldn't be taken that way. A passing fad? Maybe. Flavour of the month? Only time will tell. Worth checking out? If you're in the mood for something a little different, most certainly.