Liz Phair - Whip-Smart

After Exile in Guyville turned Liz Phair into an indie-rock pinup queen, rock critics and lo-fi aficionados everywhere awaited her follow-up with bated breath. Instead of making Guyville II, Phair sidestepped expectations by delivering Whip-smart, an album that replaced the shoestring intimacy of her debut with more traditional song arrangements and (gasp!) professional-sounding production. Though it lacks anything as memorable (and quotable) as Guyville's "Fuck and Run," the record has some notable high points, including the acerbic "Chopsticks," the lovely ballad "Nashville," and the perfect pop single "Supernova." In short, Whip-smart isn't the tremendous artistic statement Guyville was, but it's far more accessible--and quite enjoyable on its own terms. --Dan Epstein Amazon.com

Classic

A Classic album intelligently written. There's as much going on musically as there is lyrically. Love this album. December 6, 2008

Whip-Smart

I remember this from way back, but the songs aren't like I remember them to have been. I have to skip tracks alot to keep from going insane! All in all, there's still about 5 songs that I really love on the CD. September 16, 2007

stands the test of time

The song "Nashville" off this album still gives me goosebumps each time I hear it. Her voice overall sounds very cool on this album. "Whip Smart" is also a really fun track. I got this in late 1995 as a promo when I worked for a college paper and I still have it in my collection! It's probably the only CD that has survived that long, and I just downloaded it to my itunes -- no scratches, all these years later! thanks Liz! (cool album jacket too). June 19, 2007

"And nobody sparkles like you..."

I bought this album about three years ago and to this day whip-smart is still my favorite album. Liz Phair is a genius. Her song-writing is incredible, her voice a relentless pitbull, and her image, a true reniassance. All the songs I love, especially Nashville, Go West, and the album closer, May Queen.
A lot of people think she sold out with her later albums but hey a girl's gotta get paid. Exile in Guyville is considered her masterpiece, and i think it's a great album but for me, whip-smart is her masterpiece. Totally under-rated, this album has smart lyrics and great guitar playing. You can decide for yourself but Whip-smart is one cd that will never be used as a coaster. March 26, 2006

Rockin' -- I dig it :)

I find Liz's music to be good fun and entertaining. Since there are plenty of persons out there happy to be wordy about it, I'll keep this brief. Love it! February 12, 2006

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