Stephen's CD: The 5.6.7.8's "The 5.6.7.8's"

I vaguely remember buying this CD on the suggestion of Mr. Christopher "Slim" Rodrigue (who currently plays bass and sings for The Transmission), although I cannot remember where I purchased it. In any case, the cover alone, which features the band's vintage gear left on stage in front of a shimmering golden curtain peppered with 45s, was enough to catch my eye at the time (maybe 2003?) with or without the suggestion from Slim. And on the back of the CD, amongst glowing text from Russell O' Day is a rather small photo of the three female members of the band, bedecked in fetching gowns, dolled-up, posing with their instruments, and being very Japanese. Brilliant already.

This CD is among the several in my collection that I typically neglect for some time, before turning an eye to it, wondering why I even have it, taking a listen, and remembering exactly why. There is no doubt that the 5.6.7.8's are among the best garage rock & roll bands around.

Is there some kitsch value to owning the record? Of course. Ronnie "Yoshiko" Fujiyama and Screaming "Omo" Chellio Panther's vocals do evoke a smirk at times, as their accents make many of the lyrics completely unintelligible (not that intelligibility is ever of high value for garage rock). The kitsch fest that is Kill Bill put the striking aspects of the band to good use, and although such things might be distracting, one should note that the gals can truly play, and do truly rock.

Score: 7 1/2 out of 10 (would be higher, but it's in a jewel case)

Shall I keep it? Yes, certainly. At least until the great jewel case purge of 2050 Stephen_, StephenCD_