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Feb 12, 2019 Web Exclusive By Michael James Hall

Jerking, frantic, visceral rock from the El Paso band Le Butcherettes abounds here on their fourth full-length, bi/MENTAL, their first away from long-term collaborator/producer Omar Rodríguez-López (of The Mars Volta). A typically feisty spoken word guest spot from Jello Biafra typifies a highly politicized, powerfully feminist, high energy record that gives voice to Teri Gender Bender’s acrobatic, high-intensity vocals. “I’m not the kind of girl you thought I was,” notes Teri on “strong/ENOUGH,” emblematic of a strident, empowering collection of overtly theatrical material that at times recalls Yeah Yeah Yeahs or even Lydia Lunch.

But, on the whole, despite the album’s obvious flair, the only moment that truly stands out is the introspective “in/THE END,” with its languid pace and vast, arena-ready chorus. Bi/MENTAL does not distinguish itself in terms of originality or songwriting to a large enough degree to be considered truly remarkable. (www.lebutcherettesofficial.com)

Author rating: 5.5/10