Girl in a Coma has been making waves on the alternative scene with a bit of help from '80s rockers Joan Jett and Morrissey.

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BY SAM KRIEG

The album artwork for female rock trio Girl in a Coma's "Both Before I'm Gone" seems more appropriate for an emo band. The mix of fanciful and dangerous (cute little disproportionate children with sharp objects) has become quite identifiable with that scene. However, this is not the case; GIAC rock more and whine a lot less than your typical Chris Carrabba clone.

With "Both Before I'm Gone" the band, signed to Joan Jett's Blackheart Records label, looks to bring back the rock that some people say died with Kurt Cobain.

On "Chivalry" and "Clumsy Sky," GIAC writes catchy riffs, while on album-closer, "Simple Man," things go acoustic very nicely. Singer and guitarist Nina Diaz is quite a talent behind the mic, backed by bouncy, foot-tapping drums and a bass that is actually audible.

Things aren't perfect on the album; songs such as "Consider" drag from time to time. Overall, though, "Both Before I'm Gone" succeeds in filling the gap once occupied by grunge--an area that has fallen into disrepair in recent years as focus has shifted to other styles.

If opening a string of shows recently for '80s icon Morrissey is any indication, GIAC is well positioned to inherit the mantle of rock 'n' roll. And if "Both Before I'm Gone" is any indication, Girl in a Coma will know exactly what to do with that opportunity.

Sam Krieg is a student at the University of Mary Washington.