Geffen Vinyl & CDs

Review: Originally released in 2006 and recorded following the departure of 'fifth' bandmember Jim O'Rourke, Rather Ripped is regarded by many as Sonic Youth's most accessible album - a fuzzy, easy-to-listen to collection of melancholic and thoughtful songs that variously deal with sexual frustration, infidelity and adultery. There are both riotous rockers and introspective ballads present, with the iconic American band adding bold and ear-catching melodies to their usual pots-and-pans percussion and squally guitar riffs. While hardcore fans may prefer some of the band's more experimental and forthright albums, it remains one of the many gems in their vast catalogue - and proof of their impeccable songcraft.