After a seven year hiatus, "Vixen" is back and better than ever. Their first album was a self-titled affair which went gold in '88 and produced a couple of hit singles. They appeared in the movie "Hardbodies" and had an "MTV Unplugged" special, but soon after their second album was released, they split to persue other interests. Now with the somewhat different lineup of Janet Gardener on vocals who was the original founder of the band, Gina Stile on guitar, Roxy Petrucci on drums, and Maxine Petrucci (Roxy's sister) on bass, they've come back on the scene and have created some wonderful music.

When I heard the first song, "Page," I said "this is Vixen?" I'll admit that though their past music is something of a blur to me, I don't remember liking it that much. This sounds like the same group, just updated and improved. "Page" is really something. It's a slow, rough tune with lyrics that confuseyou almost as much as the person it's being sung about is confused. Hope that wasn't too confusing a sentence, but if it is, you'll get an idea of how strange the song is. It's basically about someone who's stuck where they're at, and running around in circles unable to change their situation. Cool stuff.

Next up is the title song "Tangerine." The press kit tells me that it's "the story of that psychotic girl we all knew - perfect in high school who hasn't been able to keep it together as a grown up." It's really a sad song dressed up in a slightly amusing package, though the writer comes off as being highly insensitive. Of course, who really liked those perfect girls in school anyway, right?

"Peace" may be the most mellow song on the album. It's been described as Beatlesque, but I'm not sure I agree with that. The music in the soft spots vaguely resembles "The Beatles" if you're listening for it, but I wouldn't have just picked that term from the air while checking it out. It's a sad song that tells the tale of an abusive relationship. The quiet gets angry, but settles down again, just like a woman in that situation.

When I listened to "Bleed" I could only think of how much the song sounds like "Morphine And Chocolate" by "4 Non Blondes." It's the only song I've really been able to compare to anyone else in particular. Of course it's not really the same theme or exactly the same music, but there are definite similarities between the two. There's nothing else particularly outstanding about the tune, but that struck me so much I felt I should mention it.

"Shut Up" is a fast and furious tune that is probably pretty self explanatory. This one is really vicious toward all those arrogant people you'd like to force off the tv, out of your house, anywhere, because they just won't be quiet, and they intrude on you life. The music is bouncy in a rough, heavy alternative way. Very neat, though perhaps a slightly disturbing song.

"Air Balloon" immediately caught my attention. Though not every sentiment in the song is positive, it's a very hopeful, somewhat slow and light song. I'd have to say it's my favorite on the CD, though it's a bit difficult to pick.

There's also a hidden song on the CD entitled "Swatting Flies In Wanker County" which is a wonderful bluesy instrumental. Lots of change-ups with a whimsical feel. This is an awesome tune.

I was amazed at how much I liked this album. It's got a variety of elements and styles within the music, and most of the lyrics are creative, or at least fun. There's a large number of songs that have to do with bad relationships that are difficult to remove yourself from, but even if you're not too into that subject, you'll still enjoy listening to this wonderful reunion.