So, there's a wee bit of a story to go with this one, and it's been a lot of fun to review. Nicola Cheeseman Is Back is a new play by Kathryn Burnett, detailing the story of a 50 year old woman having a midlife crisis, who decides to get her '80s punk band, Cherry Slits, back together. Starring Jodie Rimmer in her first one-woman performance, and directed by Paul Gittins, it's billed as "a story every woman will get, and every man should see".

The sound designer for the show decided it would be fun to actually put "Cherry Slits" together (featuring Jodie on lead vocals, and Katie Scott (Kittens of the Internet) and Dee Taylor (Mary, Avondale Spiders) on backing vocals) and record an album, and Cherry Slits Are Back is the result.

My People is the first track, classic early punk, snotty and brash. You've never heard this song before, but trust me, you've heard this song before. A two-fingered, shove-it-up-your-arse salute, it will be stuck in your head for days. The title track is another rollicking explosion of a song, a statement of riotous intent that flips off the face of authority, laughs in the face of death, and triumphs in the face of all good sense. 

Mindy is a tale of betrayal and loss, coupled with acceptance and strength, all delivered in a bold and blistering punk package , sure to leave earworms in its wake. Next track Boy Poison is a cynical look at romantic life, about being "addicted to Boy Poison, and I want more every day!!" Crikey! A woman who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to admit that what she wants is actually a bit crap. Yet another pure punk banger.

Last track Going Down is hard, fast, and grunty, the indefatigable Cherry Slits showing off their heavier side, with an absolute killer chorus that will capture your heart and do unspeakable things to it in squalid alleyways.

Nicola Cheeseman Is Back looks like a fantastically good time, and if the quality of the music is anything to go by, it will be excellent indeed. Playing at Herald Theatre, Aotea Centre, until July 7th. 

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• 5
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• 1
  APT.
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• 2
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• 3
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• 4
  TASTE
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• 5
  I LOVE YOU, I'M SORRY
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• 6
  ESPRESSO
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• 7
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• 8
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• 9
  A BAR SONG (TIPSY)
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• 10
  GOOD LUCK, BABE!
  Chappell Roan

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