★★☆☆☆
With naive, funny songs such as Add it Up and Blister in the Sun, Violent Femmes pretty much invented American college rock, thereby soundtracking countless awkward and/or romantic moments in independent movies. We Can Do Anything is the Wisconsin trio’s first album in 15 years, and although they tackle middle age with customary humour (“Come back so I can tell you how I’m annoyed by the fact I can’t remember your smile or your frown” from Memory), the relentless sarcasm proves it’s a short journey from young cynic to old grouch. There is a pretty moment of sincerity in What You Really Mean, a sad song about a long-term relationship, but the comic rants elsewhere make this ultimately a rather disappointing album. (Pias)