Dum Dum Girls
Too True
Reviewed by: Stephen Krock
I’m not sure if it is a result of these hard economic times, but out of it’s wreckage, a phoenix has risen in the form of the most economic band I’ve ever heard. The Dum Dum Girls, led by the appropriately named Dee Dee Penny, scrimp and save their hard earned beats and catchy hooks and allow us to hear only what we need. And what we need is more than enough.
Imagine Madonna, if you will. Not today’s Madonna with her scary arms, but early, fresh faced Madonna and have her lead a dreamy, goth pop garage band. You’ve got the Dum Dum Girls. Their songs are short and many of their choruses are simply anthemic chanting of the song’s title. There is, however, much beauty to be found in that simplicity. As Penny herself states in the standout “Evil Blooms,” “Why be good? Be beautiful and sad.” With delicious harmonies, akin to early Pipettes, and an angsty tinge comparable to Shirley Manson, Dum Dum Girls are indeed beautiful and sad. But they are also damn good. Too good to be true, to paraphrase the album’s title track, “Too True To Be Good.”
The only downfall, though, is their greatest strength. Their economic offerings are fantastic, but Too True clocks in just over a half hour. And I wanted so much more. It’s a good Catch-22 to have. Nonetheless, while Too True may seem to be an appetizer, at first, you come away from it no less full than if you have devoured an entire meal.
Rating: Bad-Ass
