Fit to Be Tied

An almost-great collection of Joan Jett & the Blackhearts highly influential and hard-rocking career, but exactly what is it missing? For one, a sense of chronology and, for another more of her songs with the Runaways, many of which she rerecorded with the Blackhearts and for various compilations. Or maybe it’s the slightly unnecessary new songs? She’s covered so many songs from the 70s-rock heyday (and before), that a few more added to the pile seems like a bit much. Or maybe it’s that a personal favorite is missing? I would have traded “Victim of Circumstance” for “Love Is Pain,” “Bits and Pieces” or “Nag.” Why isn’t “Love Is Pain” on this compilation anyway? But, really, these a minor squabbles. Nit-picking from someone who has been a fan for practically their entire life. Fit to Be Tied might not be as definitive as one would hope, but it comes fairly close. A great introduction for new fans, an almost-great compilation for those looking for all of Jett’s biggest songs/singles, Fit to Be Tied does prove that Jett is one of the most influential women in music. Hail to the original riot grrl. DOWNLOAD: “Bad Reputation,” “Do You Wanna Touch Me (Oh Yeah),” “Crimson and Clover”