Playlouder - Music is the Network

I'll begin by being brutally honest by stating that I have absolutely no idea what the current social opinion is towards the Dresden Dolls, they are just one of those bands that seem to be rarely discussed outside of their own MySpace and website. This may be due to a lack of interest, or sheer contempt. Although, it would be disappointing to find that this were the case, as over the course of their previous album's (2003's The Dresden Dolls and 2006's Yes, Virginia) the Boston based duo have created something quite unique that warrants investigation. 

Amanda Palmer's vocals will instantly divide opinion, however, her cracked voice suits the lyrics in such a way, that a polished delivery would detract greatly from, for nothing here is about perfection. The imagery drawn upon here is a mixture of the eloquent and the disturbing, the sexual and the forlorn. Brian Viglione's rhythm section keeps things nice and jumpy but never seems to venture to far into any given track.

No Virginia, is not a new album as such, more a companion piece to Yes Virginia, in that it is a mixture of b-sides, live favourites and new tracks. It does however, make a great introductory record for the dolls as it is representative of exactly what they have to offer. There are some real treats here, including a wicked cover of Pretty In Pink. Lonesome Organist Rapes Page-Turner being another definite highlight.

It is unfortunate that in recent years, for some uncertain reason, many of the mainstream pop artists are flaunting vaudeville and burlesque as massive influences, were in all probability, there was just nothing else in fashion that month. The fact is, without trying to stake unearned credibility on an artist, that they have been in their cabaret guise for almost a decade now and so any accusations of bandwagon jumping or attempted trend hopping are ill founded. Let your judgment not be clouded by any preconceived notions you may have, as their appearance could easily evoke strong reaction.

So, I would urge you to at least try them out. As far as piano tinkling whack jobs go, she's no Diamanda Galas, but well worth a shot. They can grate a little with extended listening, but the tracks that work are memorable enough to excuse this. They conjure the image of a great live act and here's hoping that this new collection brings them over in this direction sometime soon.