Jealous Girls is the latest track from punk three-piece Gossip, who are currently on tour all across Europe bringing their “deep south” sound to the masses.
I’ve never been much of a punk fan, but Gossip have still appealed to me somewhat through their fairly unique sound – vocalist Beth Ditto is consistently strong and gritty, easily selling whatever it is that she’s singing. I won’t digress into the almost cult-like following Ditto has gathered in recent times (especially since her coverage in NME in 2006) as, in my opinion, this would only prejudice the listener one way or another. You probably already either love her or hate her anyway.
This latest single release continues in Gossip’s established style, but also mixes in a slightly more modern sound to the band—minor but still detectable influences of indie and modern rock creep through here and there and create something really quite interesting. Despite claiming to have loathed every second of touring with indie acts like Scissor Sisters one might suggest the mainstream sound has left a footprint on Gossip’s own work ever since, although I wouldn’t say that to their face! This is by no means an earth shattering redefinition of the genre, but it's nice to have a break from the usual punk three chord progressions.
Also included on this single release is a live recording of
Jealous Girls, which is really very good indeed. Sometimes the energy and clarity of a decent track can be lost in poor live performances, but not in this instance. The live recording is very competent and possibly a better listen than the radio edit, and is also a good indicator that Gossip are more than capable of entertaining the crowds at a live venue. B-side
Coal To Diamonds is a slow and morose ballad, which while a little bland is enjoyable enough for what it is.
With a band like Gossip it almost feels futile to critically review a new release, since everyone who knows them is most likely either a die-hard fan or an outspoken hater of their image, music and damn near everything else about them. If however you’ve never heard any of their music then I would suggest that you not start with Jealous Girls—their 2006 breakthrough track
Standing In The Way Of Control is a safer choice, and in my opinion the band has yet to come up with a better tune.
I enjoyed this single release as a welcome break from my usual playlists, however I wouldn’t be too quick to recommend it elsewhere. Ditto’s vocal style is certainly something worth hearing, but the actual track has only a small amount of replay value. Better suited to an alternative club playlist than your home library.
Jealous Girls is out now on Backyard Records
www.myspace.com/gossipband www.back-yard.co.uk 
maybe that's just me
