Kevin Bronson on February 4th, 2015

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The debut album from Ex Hex, last fall’s “Rips” was either a fantastic surprise or no surprise at all, depending on your familiarity with singer-guitarist Mary Timony, who has released music in no fewer than a half-dozen different guises over the past two decades. Notably, there was the beloved Matador Records band Helium, and, more recently, the supergroup Wild Flag. Ex Hex, her Washington D.C.-based collaboration with Laura Harris and Betsy Wright derives its name from Timony’s 2005 solo album, and “Rips” deservedly ripped its way onto a bunch of 2014 year-end lists. The opening track, “Don’t Wanna Lose,” is a hand-clapping good time. The video, directed by Lara Jean Gallagher, is a satirical take on the cult-classic 1980s movie “Ladies & Gentlemen: The Fabulous Stains.” For those under 30 and too lazy for Google, it’s a film about three teenage girls who start a punk band with Diane Lane, Laura Dern, even Steve Jones (yes, the Sex Pistol). It’s a fitting flick for Ex Hex to emulate and a perfect match for the track. But for the love of god, leave the neon and massive hair at home … and enjoy.

— Jessica Shalvoy

||| Stream: “Beast”

||| Live: Ex Hex plays May 15 at the Roxy.