POP MUSIC : ALBUM REVIEW : *** VARIOUS ARTISTS “Spirit of ‘73: Rock for Choice” <i> 550/Epic</i>

This benefit album for the Rock for Choice organization features 14 female artists of the ‘90s covering their favorite female-sung hits of the ‘70s. Some of the reinterpretations are more drastic than others. That Dog’s treatment of Maria Muldaur’s sultry “Midnight at the Oasis” starts off with an Andrews Sisters flair, then takes a rockier turn; Joan Jett joins L7 for a rendition of “Cherry Bomb” that’s as nasty and snarling as the original version she recorded with the Runaways; Ebony Vibe Everlasting’s version of Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family” substitutes a sly funkiness for the disco overdrive. Even when the revisions don’t quite work, it’s a kick to hear fresh takes on these blasts from the past. --Sandy Masuo *

Albums are rated one star (poor) to four (excellent).

Catch the ‘Spirit’

* To hear a sample of the album “Spirit of ‘73: Rock for Choice,” call TimesLine at 808-8463 and press *5720.

In 805 area code, call (818) 808-8463.