Partyline Issue #30

Zombie Terrorists (Retard Disco)

By Adam Rathe
Published: December 1st, 2006 | 12:00am

Bands too often fall into one of two categories: they’re either fun or they’ve got something to say. Seldom can both bases be covered. Partyline, however, is on the case. With a bawdy, blistering sound and politically charged lyrics attacking the religious right and the president (“You got the pigs, you got the Prez, you ain’t pro-life, you’re all about death” from “Party-N-Animal”), there’s no denying that Partyline’s got something to say, but they know that it’s all in the delivery. 

Angela Melkisethian’s guitar squeals and roars while Crystal Bradley’s machine gun drumming keeps the songs in high gear — leaving Allison Wolfe (of Bratmobile) to give her all to her trademark singing, combining the delivery of an entire cheer squad with the bite of a rattlesnake. Songs like “Ladies Room” rail against bogus boys while the title track tackles more political material, making for one of the best songs in their live show.  

As Partyline zooms through Zombie Terrorists’ 11 tracks, it’s hard not to get lost in a world of tough girls with glasses, uncaring public officials, and the band’s own brand of righteous justice. Whether or not you’ve registered yourself as a member, it’s definitely a good idea to toe this Partyline.