Vice Squad - The Punk Singles Collection (1997)

Vocalist Beki Bondage was a British punker's Marilyn Monroe dressed in leather. Unlike Monroe, Bondage presented herself as an intelligent woman who could kick butt when she wanted to. Throughout most of this CD, Bondage struts her stuff, taunting the listener to stop looking at the cover photos and actually listen to what she has to say. Imagine a clear-headed Siouxsie Sioux backed by a straightforward tight punk band. Though Vice Squad doesn't offer much more than your average early-'80s British punk band, the group certainly did possess a spiked charm and a knack for writing pure anthemic punk rock. Vice Squad's debut single, "Last Rockers," was a fabulous call to arms, instantly showcasing what this band was all about. "Stand Strong Stand Proud" toughens up the attack with beefier production and more confident musicianship. "Rock & Roll Massacre" is an instant singalong, although it's lyrics are a bit trite and silly. Bondage continues to raise the stakes on the first 16 tracks, leaving the last eight tracks here sung by her replacement, Lia, who is not as distinct as Bondage, but certainly doesn't embarrass herself in the slightest (just listen to "What's Going On?," "High Spirits," and "The Pledge" for proof of that). Though the casual listener may think it all sounds the same, fans of good ol' punk rock will be happy with this "vice."~Steve "Spaz" Schnee