Kick

Sometimes music is just meant to be fun: no bombastic rock tropes weighing you down, no themes like war or politics bringing you down, no transparent nods to pretension or perfection. The Splinters—an Oakland-based quartet of young women—fit the “fun” bill with ease, blending a loose, shambling garage rock sensibility with the bite of riot grrrl righteousness. They’re the more rockin’ older sisters of fellow Bay Areans The She’s, with their jangly, seesawing guitars, crashing snares, and sweetly imperfect vocals delivering pointed, sassy lyrics with glee. Floor toms are attacked with fervor, and a post-punk Shaggs cool emanates from their wacky vocal choruses. Supercharged tunes like “Mysterious,” “Ch-Cha,” and the galloping “Splintered Bridges” show their punk roots proudly, while giggle- and dance-worthy tunes like “Cool” and “Dark Shades” offer a mellower shade of swagger. The irresistible sing-along chorus on “Sorry” tries to sound sincere, but you know these girls have other things on their mind than trying to make peace. At least they give it a shot.