ZapTown

The Slits
Trapped Animal
Narnack Records
Rating: 3.5 out of 5

It has been 28 years since The Slits released an album. Twenty-eight years is a long time for things to happen, tastes to change, life to grow and expand.

But with Trapped Animal things are not so much different. Basic humanitarian issues remain  — social dilemmas, the overpowering existence of “the state,” the constant improvement of rights, paying rent — things that punks hated. For the band, they are still battling sexism and being outsiders in the music world, and that battle shows up throughout their third release.

During the lapsed time, what has replaced the idea of change for this band is merely a transgression, going from “innovation” to “preservation.” Sure they are rebelling from the basic institutions of society. “Don’t want any 9 to 5 job everyday. Get up for something boring — get paid,” Ari Up sings on “Pay Rent,” but their is a feeling that this band is now on the defensive. “I want to pay rent with passion.” It’s just that they want to do it their way. But isn’t that how they have always done it?

One thing you immediately notice is that the band has learned how to play their instruments well. With that, complimented by the professionalism of the recording, they are able to explore deeper into the reggae influences that peppered Cut.

And while Trapped Animal is more island pop than punk infused, there is a fiery fierceness in their eyes that burn brighter. “Peer Pressure,” “Can’t Relate,” and “Reject” all show that the only thing The Slits have to offer for pop culture is the middle finger. It’s a comfort to those dealing with alienation issues.

It’s not certain if The Slits are doing this for us or for them. Perhaps, it’s a little of both. Even with the flaws this album presents, there is an unapologetic film that sticks to this album that you can respect. That is something many punk bands of today gloss over, and if anyone can remind us of that, it’s The Slits.