Kissproof World

by Tom DemalonAfter a five-year hiatus, Jane Wiedlin returned with Kissproof World on her own label, producing the record as well. There's real chemistry among her backing band, which includes guitarists Luke Tierney (of Silverjet) and Frank Agnew (of the Adolescents) and Wiedlin's little-girl voice reveals more maturity, noticeably on ballads like "The Good Wife" and "He's Not Talking." The latter song is a moody, dreamy duet with Matthew Sweet. Kissproof World draws on Wiedlin's past with the unbridled "Die Now! Pay Later!" and the punchy, singalong title track. There are also a few inspired touches like the use of the Bulgarian Women's Choir during the bridge of "Icicle" and the Middle Eastern-flavored "Feeling Like Flying." Lyrically, Kissproof World has a very personal feel: sometimes amusing ("Fallen"), sometimes somber ("The Good Wife." Kissproof World is some of Wiedlin's best and most engaging work.