For All My Sisters [Deluxe Edition] [CD/DVD]

The Cribs have worked with plenty of A-list collaborators over the years, including Edwyn Collins, Franz Ferdinand's Alex Kapranos, Johnny Marr, and Steve Albini. Nevertheless, having Ric Ocasek produce For All My Sisters was an especially inspired choice, considering that the band conceived of the album as a set of pop songs (an Albini-produced punk album was set to be released soon after). Much of the Cribs' charm comes from their volatile mix of rough and sweet -- especially on their previous album In the Belly of the Brazen Bull -- so focusing on just one of those aspects could have diminished their music. However, few of the band's other attempts to polish their style have sounded this natural. Ocasek adds just enough new wave sheen to make the most of For All My Sisters' sizeable hooks: Witness the handclaps and buzzy synths on "Mr. Wrong" or "Summer of Chances"' chugging riffs. Touches like these recall not only the Cars but also bring out the side of the Cribs that resembles We