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After hitting the mainstream recently, percussion-based duo The Dresden Dolls proves to be as quirky as ever on their new CD. |
By Gordon Phillips
When people talk about a rock group, they usually mean four or five musicians playing instruments. Rarely is a successful alternative or rock band simply two people.
There have, however, been a few notable exceptions to this, including the White Stripes and Tenacious D. Another band to add to the list of duo stardom is The Dresden Dolls. After mainstream success following their break-out hit "Coin-Operated Boy," the band has toured with groups including Panic at the Disco and Nine Inch Nails.
The Dresden Dolls are made up of pianist/vocalist Amanda Palmer and drummer Brian Viglione. While the two are very talented musically, their live shows have been known to go far beyond just that. The band has been known to wear lots of makeup and add almost a theatrical element to their performances, with jugglers and fire-breathers.
The Dresden Dolls' latest release, "No, Virginia," is a compilation of B-sides and new songs. The album starts off with "Dear Jenny," a quirky, piano-driven song about the life of a girl with many problems.
"Lonesome Organist Rapes Page Turner," one of the B-sides of their first album and one of the best songs on this album, is about exactly what it sounds like. The song combines a very upbeat piano part, aggressive drumming and interesting lyrics for a memorable experience.
In "Pretty in Pink," Palmer exchanges her usual grand piano for a very synthesized keyboard, making the song feel a lot happier than the majority of the songs on the album.
Though the band does very well with their sound, the songs eventually all end up sounding the same, because there is only so much two people can do with a drum set and piano.
While "No, Virginia" is not quite as impressive as the critically acclaimed "Yes, Virginia," it is still solid for a compilation album--and a must-have for any avid fan.
Gordon Phillips is a senior
