April 2011's @MOJOmagazine features a disc called Panic! that focuses on indie expressions of political turmoil, labor issues, and general anxiety. Underemployment, Margaret Thatcher, and war all get airings, by groups ranging from Mekons (as well as spinoff The Three Johns), Billy Bragg, Redskins, Robert Wyatt, Half Man Half Biscuit, and other bedfellows. While I don't love it all—the Madness track downright annoys me, and a handful of other tunes don't have the charisma of the finest moments here—overall this is a covermount that I've enjoyed more than most in recent weeks. My pick is this cracking two-minute blast and 1980 debut single by Leeds quartet Girls At Our Best!, who released five singles and one full-length during their brief lifespan. Vocalist Judy Evans gives a great, biting performance here. I have long known this song as done by the Wedding Present; truth be told, I didn't realize it was a cover. It is great to hear the original. I'll be tracking down that album.
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