Gits Kings & Queens CD

In 1988, prior to their graduation from Ohio's Antioch College (where the band was formed), the Gits recorded a collection of tracks for a cassette-only release. The cassette, which appeared nearly 4 years before their first "official" album FRENCHING THE BULLY, features early versions of what came to be Gits classics ("Cut My Skin it Makes Me Human" and "Kings & Queens" are especially good). There is also the inevitable track or two that displays more enthusiasm than actual skill, and the odd cover, such as a gritty, sneering version of the Stooges "Loose" that does Iggy and the boys proud.

Other standouts include a version of "It All Dies Anyway" that is slightly looser and more swinging than the subsequent version from FRENCHING THE BULLY, "Snivelling Little Rat Faced Git" (which, incidentally, was the band's original name), a intricate blink-and-you-miss-it sliver of pure punk, and "Still You Don't Know What It's Like," which recalls X circa-UNDER THE BIG BLACK SUN. KINGS & QUEENS is a surprisingly well-formed album for what essentially amounts to a collection of demo recordings, and another must-have chapter in the saga of the Gits.

This recording of THE GITS was made in Ohio in 1988 before their emigration to Seattle. It was recorded in a studio in one take to two stereo tracks. 100 cassettes were produced and sold in a matter of days. After the murder of Gits front-woman Mia Zapata, the band decided to release this early recording.

It shows a musical depth and feeling not heard very often in punk music. It showcases Mia Zapata's vocal range and ability to improvise like a great blues singer.

I recommend it to anyone new to the music of THE GITS, or those wanting to delve deeper into the musical contributions of THE GITS or Zapata as an artist.

Recorded at Soundspace, Yellow Springs, Ohio in 1988. "Graveyard Blues" was recorded live at the Canal Street Tavern, Dayton, Ohio. Originally released as PRIVATE LUBS, in 1988. Includes liner notes by Peter Sheehy.

The Gits: Mia Zapata (vocals); Joe Spleen (guitar); Matt Dresdner (bass); Steve Moriarty (drums).

Alternative Press (3/97, p.67) - 3 (out of 5) - "...documents...the Gits' early days...invites the listener into the band's world at a time when it was not saturated with pain, but rather filled with promise."