A highly creative outfit who came out of the Oakland scene in the mid ’90s, Charming Hostess, was fronted by Jewlia Eisenberg for many years, and didn't shy away from anarchist, feminist and polyrhythmic ideas.

Here, we’re treated to seven songs from each of the two albums from Charming Hostess that haven’t been placed on streaming services— Eat (1999) and Punch (2005)—and this “Best Of” assembly sure does represent the core of their diverse and iconoclastic vision.

“Dali Tzerni” starts the festivities with bright drumming and plenty of atypical rhythms populating the gypsy style punk. “Mi Nuera” then continues with a distinct buzzing and expressive singing that follows suit to the dance floor friendly energy, and the throbbing “Klezsex” shows us just how fun and memorable Klezmer rock can be. “I’m Not Hungry” exits this portion of the listen, where the harmonic, layered vocals are met with both beauty and firmness in the very direct wordplay.

Side B gets off to a lively start with the fusion rock of the busy “Ms Lot,” and it isn’t long before the jazz tendencies of “Heaven Sitting Down” impress us with thick bursts and bare, pretty singing.

Deeper yet, the animated accordion and flowing vocals of “Two Boys” invites a sing-along immediately, and “Kaffe Turke” recruits baritone vocals and thumping drums to the anthemic and cultured exit.

Eisenberg very tragically passed away in 2021 due to a rare immune disorder. She left behind many fans, friends, admirers and a catalog of music that is thankfully being kept alive digitally and physically. Her work with Charming Hostess defies classification, perhaps residing somewhere near “Jewish-Freak-Funk-Punk,” and these songs are a testament to a life that brimmed with colorful, meaningful and impactful art that will carry Eisenberg’s memory on indefinitely.

Rating: A-

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