Familiar Auck. Crew Go Fad-hopping (Press, 25 August 1989)

The review on the Auckland group Sistermatic highlights their single "Million Dollar," released on disc Propeller X 14647. The band, comprising Mark Clare, Syd Pasley, Benny Staples, and Sina Saipaia, previously performed as part of the Newmatics, a notable ska-inspired dance band from the early 1980s. Critics noted that "Million Dollar" lacks the necessary energy to stand out, despite featuring a guest rapper, La Koi Wooten, and a sample of the "Lotto" theme. The review suggested that while the track may cater to the prevalent trends in Auckland's music scene, the opportunity to see the band perform could still make it worthwhile. The debut solo album "Workbook" by Bob Mould, a member of the influential band Husker Du, was praised for its diversity and quality. Collaborators included Anton Fier and Tony Maimone, with cello contributions from Jane Scarpantoni. The album's opening track, "Sunspots," showcased a unique sound, and tracks like "Poison Years" and "Sinners And Their Repentances" highlighted Mould's range on guitar and vocals. The reviewer noted a rich, engaging experience that grew with repeated listenings, despite initial harsh impressions. Jackson Browne's "World In Motion" received a mixed reception. The album tackled significant social issues, but the critic felt Browne's execution fell short compared to his earlier work, such as "Running On Empty." Featuring collaborations with well-known musicians like Bonnie Raitt, the album included noteworthy tracks but ultimately lacked the impactful energy of Browne's previous albums. The Pixies' album "Doolittle" was described as a remarkable work filled with energising chaos and pop sensibilities. The band blended wild guitar sounds with catchy hooks, producing a collection of songs that felt both chaotic and fun. Tracks like "Gouge Away" and "Debaser" were mentioned for their dark wit, while the overall tone of "Doolittle" was seen as inventive and uniquely engaging, appealing to both rock enthusiasts and the pop sensibility. Lastly, Chaka Khan's "Life Is A Dance — The Remix Project" faced controversy as it was undertaken without her permission, leading to tensions between the artist and Warner Bros. Despite the absence of Khan’s endorsement, the double album featured remixes of her hits and showcased her danceability, with standout tracks like "Ain't Nobody" receiving positive attention. The project aimed to reignite interest in Khan’s original work, but the artist's lack of involvement left a shadow over the project. Overall, the ratings summarised the quality of each album based on a five-star system.

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