By 1996, Vancouver trio cub had sharpened their cuddlecore into something with a little more bite. Box of Hair still runs on jangly guitars, quick pop tempos and bright vocal hooks, but Lisa Marr, Lisa G and Robynn Iwata push the songs harder than the group’s softer reputation might suggest. “Freaky”, “Loaded” and “Main and Broadway” have the snap of concise indie pop, while “Pillow Queen” adds purrs from Tracy and “Magic 8 Ball” gets accordion, hand claps and a playful wobble. The title track brings in Sean Thompson’s musical saw, and “River Side” closes the main set with violin from Sexy Pierre.
Marr’s bass and lead vocals hold the centre, with Iwata and G sharing guitar, drums and backing parts, plus lead turns on “Way to Go” and the live “Not What You Think”. The record was made at Vancouver’s Miller Block in February and April 1996, produced, mixed and engineered by Mass Giorgini and Darryl Neudorf. A couple of odd extras round it out, including a live track and 16 minutes of squeaky bed before another live song. Fans of twee pop with a punkier edge should find plenty here, especially in the short, catchy songs that keep their claws visible.
