Jenny Toomey

Between 1990 and 1997, Washington DC four-piece Tsunami we're both cottage industry and Indy powerhouse, front women Jenny Toomey and Kristin Thomson releasing their three fine LPs well also running DIY label Simple Machines. Songs about music industry, dynamics and female oppression clearly displayed their hometown punk and riot grrrl origins, but this box set shows how Sonic Youth, nuance and fearless vocals made them more proto-Sleater-Kinney than post-Bikini Kill. Best is 1993's Deep End a beautifully wintry collection of diary pages that flip between arch fury (In a Name) and slacker alienation (Genius of Crack). The Heart’s Tremolo, released in 1994, nearly matches its predecessor’s, bracing impact, while 1997's “A Brilliant Mistake”, expands their sound with contributions from members of the Sea And Cake. Demos and B sides and singles complete a fierce collection. A welcome testament to a band who’s emotional and political force resonates down the years. -Victoria Segal.