by John Dougan Named after a terrific 60s jazz album by Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Rip, Rig & Panic answered the question: What happens when avant-garde post-punks collide headlong with a pop/soul singer and play a mutated form of jazz? A loosely knit collection of ex-Pop Group members (Gareth Sanger and Bruce Smith) and young stars-to-be (Neneh Cherry), Rip, Rig & Panic formed in 1980 as quintessential avant-garde bohemians. They eschewed pop for a more primal, percussive foundation (slightly reggae, slightly Afro-pop), upon which was layered free jazz blowing and honking, soulful singing, and Cecil Taylor-inspired piano mania. But, as intense as this music was, it wasnt done with a dry academic seriousness; quite the contrary, Rip, Rig & Panic were all about fun and playfulness. Even the song titles (Constant Drudgery Is Harmful to Soul, Spirit & Health and Those Eskimo Women Speak Frankly) sounded more like surreal announcements than they did traditional, catchy song titles. Arguably the most likable bunch of avant-garde types ever to record music, Rip, Rig & Panic called it a day after three mostly wonderful, if somewhat inconsistent records. If your taste in music, even fringe music, is such that a strong melodic focus is necessary, than perhaps this wont be your cup of tea. However, if you dont mind a little chaos with your funk, then give this heady mix a chance; it will work its way into your heart, head, and feet. As for the members, Bruce Smith joined Public Image Ltd. for a spell, and Neneh Cherry became a huge pop star (deservedly so) with her first solo record.