Rasputina

When it came time for Rasputina to release a follow-up to its 2002 critically acclaimed effort Cabin Fever, a covers album wasn't exactly what one would have expected. The reissue of 1999's Lost & Found EP is great supplement to the eerie-cool Rasputina collection, not to mention an interesting look at some of the trio's favorite cuts of yesteryear. Producer Mike Viola (the Candy Butchers) assisted Rasputina for seven cello-drenched songs -- and the presentation is flawless. To imagine classical arrangements around any of these songs is an odd feat. For instance, Pat Benatar's 1981 hit "Fire & Ice": Melora Creager isn't exactly a match for the vocal prowess of Benatar; however, Rasputina's version is beautifully detached. Marilyn Manson's "Tourniquet" is switched up for layered, goth-like melodies and scowling instrumentation -- it's quite theatrical and alluring. One might laugh at the thought of trio's rendition of Led Zeppelin's "Rock & Roll," but don't sell Rasputina out just yet. Rasputina's talent in ignoring the industrial rock trap for a chaotically beautiful scene all its own has allowed the band to stand out all these years, so the nasty, raw appeal of "Rock & Roll is a suitable cut. Robert Plant would be pleased, for it's an impressive twist of depth and desire -- and a much better cover of a Led Zeppelin song compared to P. Diddy's lackluster "Kashmir" translation in 1998's "Come With Me." Lost & Found captures Rasputina's peculiar chamber style and listeners should find it strikingly entertaining. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide