Le Tigre: This Island

Interview, Nov, 2004 by Anicee Gaddis

LE TIGRE This Island (Strummer/Universal)

Who'd have thought a Pointer Sisters' remake could have ever trumped the original? Well, there's some heavy competition coming from the grit-grrrls in Le Tigre. The New York City dance-punk trio, best noted for their identity-assertion polemics, has come correct with a high-spirited rejiggering of the classic "I'm So Excited." Beyond that, This Island is equal parts neo-politicking and faux heroine mimicry. The highlight, "Nanny Nanny Boo Boo," is a wily-eyed self-parody that deftly rides the line between informed consciousness and hipster deadpan. "Let's synchronize our movements 'til they're supersick," coos singer Kathleen Hanna, and it's pure post-gangsta gold.