Throwing Muses - Underappreciated Brilliance?

This is not intended as a full-blown review of Throwing Muses' eponymous 2003 "comeback" album - just a little plug for those who might be interested. At this point, you either know Throwing Muses or you don't. Darlings of the late 80's indie scene, they crafted smart, articulate, sophisticated guitar-based pop, with just enough distortion to keep them from sounding "twee." After several personnel changes and all but given up for dead, band leader Kristin Hersh and the then-current incarnation of the band re-emerged in 2003 with a rather stunning record. Check our "Civil Disobedience" and "Solar Dip." Both offer fine examples of the overall sound and feel of this record. Throwing Muses isn't likely to convert anyone who finds indie rock too self-important, gloomy, or serious. But, if you thought Throwing Muses were left for dead after Tanya Donelly left to form Belly and Hersh concentrated on motherhood and her folk-leaning solo career, this is a great reminder of what a fantastic band they are.