The Veronicas — Hook Me Up

The Veronicas' sophomore album has me torn. Opening track "Untouched" is a bold introduction since it mixes techno dance beats with synthed violins and distorted guitars. It makes me think I'm going to love the album right away. I'm thinking it's a younger version of CSS-meets-Pussycat Dolls, and the Australian twins blend sweet and sexy in a daringly addictive way. Unfortunately, the rest of the album is unimpressive at best. The songs are naive and vulnerable, which makes the sisters look like needy victims who don't know how to be strong or independent without a man or a relationship. Behind the catchy dance beats and cute vocals is an uncomfortable feeling that this is the opposite of empowering. "Take Me On The Floor" and "Popular" are admittedly pure teenage party tracks, but they're impossible to respect.

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