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Phil Mongredien, Q Magazine 3/5 Stars
Art-rock veterans make most listenable album in years.
After losing their way in the late '90s, Sonic Youth have got a second wind. Rather Ripped follows on from 2004's impressive Sonic Nurse and is their most mature album to date, with songs taking centre stage and guitar squall used more selectively. Opener Reena bounces along happily, while the six-minute Turquoise Boy features some pretty and restrained guitar noodling. Best of all is The Neutral, Kim Gordon leading them in a summery pop direction. Only the dreary Do You Believe In Rapture? falls flat.