t.A.T.u. 200 KM/H IN THE WRONG LANE (Throwback Review)

t.A.T.u.
200 KM/H IN THE WRONG LANE
Interscope Records; 10 December 2002
200_kmh

“Like a game of pick up sticks, Played by fucking lunatics”
If this is cynical, processed pop, give me some more!
When I first heard these two girls described as a pair of teenage Russian lesbians, I thought, “Oh God, here we go, another of those annoying novelty pop packages.”  Then I played the record.  t.A.T.u’s album sounds like nothing I’ve ever heard, and I can’t stop listening to it.  It’s really too bad people seem to be more focused on the fact that these two young girls of t.A.T.u. from Russia (ages 17 and 18) are lesbians, and not the fact that these two have amazing vocals. I could really care less if they’re making out in their latest video.
Their latest single, “All the Things She Said,” is blowing up on radio air play and video channels.   Each track has it’s own unique style.  Here is yet another teeny-bop act you’d love to hate but can’t because they’re so damn talented. I know it’s sacrilege to say so, but I think their cover The Smiths’ ‘How Soon is Now?’ might even be better than the original.
The CD features 8 new tracks, two Russian versions and an Extended mix and is well worth it.   It may be true that most of the tracks are English versions of their original Russian version, but the CD is worth a listen.   Tracks range for ballads, to pop, and a few could even be considered techno and industrial.   And don’t compare these girls to Brittany of Christina, there musical career is just beginning the US.  These girls have managed to match the image with an equally attention-grabbing album. Big on the synth and bass and filled with addictive hooks, ‘All The Things She Said’ suggests this Russian teen duo could have some longevity.
(Throwback review from 2002)