Fine twoer captures Katrina and Kimberly in great form

The first two (actually the first K&TW album was really their third) albums by K&TW captures the band in fine form. Kimberly Rew's songwriting (with help from Vince De La Cruz)dominates the band's strong debut. The two hits are here as well as a number of strong tracks: Walking On Sunshine and the band's underrated original version of Going Down To Liverpool demonstrate that the best versions are K&TW's versions.

Dissimilar to Rew's work with The Soft Boys (although it has the same type of pop smarts and sharp guitar riffs), the band's first US release is one of their strongest. The band's second album is a bit more problematic. Rew is restricted to only a couple of songs and Katrina tends to dominate here. Her songs are occasionally interesting but rarely as engaging or memorable as Rew's. Vince De La Cruz also contributes a couple of gems as well helping to increase the quality of the album. Really, though, the songwriting should have been restricted to Rew (with support from the fine De La Cruz) as he's the band's secret weapon.

Waves isn't as compelling or consistent as their debut but has a number of fine moments scattered throughout it. This twoer does a fine job of repackaging these albums. Rew's power pop songwriting and melodic instincts enliven the band's US debut (their third Canadian release). 41/2 stars for the debut and 3 stars for their second album.

As usual BGO does a great job with this reissue. The CD booklet notes are informative and fun to read.