Is it even possible to dislike The Cramps? Another definition of 'perfection' is The Cramps. To call them psycho-billy or rockabilly or even rock n' roll seems to limit their greatness. "Smell of Female" is a live recording that took place at The Peppermint Lounge, February 25 & 26 1983. There are many reasons to buy and enjoy this mini-album, but what makes it essential is their version of the Russ Mayer theme song to "Faster Pussycat Kill Kill." One of the great unknown songs that I don't think ever was properly released is a DNA piece of work for The Cramps.
Which brings to mind another aspect of their greatness. Poison Ivy and Lux Interior are tastemakers as well as brilliant curators of everything 1950s culture and beyond. They are never corny, and I imagine what it must be like to spend an hour in their home in Glendale, California. A live-in museum, but the fact is, that they are cultural historians of great importance. The death of Lux is one of the significant losses in the 21st century. Nevertheless, with the brilliance of the late Nick Knox on drums, and at this point of time of the recording, Congo Powers on the second guitar - they transcend an aural sound that is also visual, and you can feel it in your sexual being. For me, the two guitars and no bass is the prime Cramps.
