The Dresden Dolls
Produced by Martin Bisi and The Dresden Dolls
All songs Written and Composed by Amanda Palmer (ASCAP)
The Dresden Dolls are: Amanda Palmer - Piano, Toy Piano, and Vocals, and Brian Viglione - Drums and Percussion.
Reviewed by Darius Jager

If Boston ever needed a poster child for independence, The Dresden Dolls are it. At first listen, I was swept away into a cabaret of psycho-stimulus. Then, I decided to grab a bottle of Merlot and set the CD to repeat. As the red filled my mouth, a flavorful bouquet drenched my ears. A fearless woman told me stories of her past as a bleeding drummer let me know exactly why he was there. Never rushed, always bold, and completely honest, The Dresden Dolls are the spark of new music that none should ignore.

The album opens with a thrashy little number called "Good Day," which suggests a plea for some positive words in a world congested with conversational whining and self-apathy. By track two the listener is fully encased in the mind of Amanda Palmer, a girl whose untimely existence has promoted the chaos that brings her visions to life. If I were to pick out a single from this stellar group of tunes it would have to be "Half-Jack," followed by "Coin-Operated Boy" on the flip side. This combo displays the two-part mix of serious lyrical expression and jovial, dolled-up sweetness that comprises this theatrical duo.

A joy to listen to and a joy to share, this album is sure to inspire all who have an open mind and a stable self-image. The entire visual production of artwork and photography makes this album a pleasure to own. Cheers to you Amanda Palmer, Brian Viglione, and Martin Bisi for creating a truly, purchase-worthy piece of art.

Darius Jager

-posted to The Great Hoboes of New York, July 9, 2005