Star Hits (September '84)

Siouxsie and the Banshees: Hyaena (Geffen)

In her native Britain, Siouxsie Sioux--who sounds like Stevie Nicks on a *very* bad trip--is an enduring punk icon. But on record her somber art-pop is miles away from thrash rock. Aside from a swirling accessible cover here of the Beatles' "Dear Prudence," these are mystical tales of glitter and gloom set against a jazzy landscape heavy on keyboards and drummer Budgie's innovative syncopation. Check the orchestral maneuvers of "Dazzle" and the liquid gallop of "Swimming Horses" for truly compulsive listening.

David Keeps