With their straight-ahead style, flamboyant look and irreverent attitude, the Dolls have influenced rock music since they first formed in the '70s. This record reflects that history, with sounds reminiscent of the Sex Pistols and the Rolling Stones, and guest appearances by Michael Stipe and Iggy Pop.
The melodies are more sophisticated and musical than they used to be. Harmonica and saxophone decorate the tracks. It sounds like the evolution of surviving founders David Johansen and Sylvain Sylvain. They're joined by guitarist Steve Conti, drummer Brian Delaney, Sami Yaffa on bass and Brian Koonin on piano.
The songs are built on a blues-rock foundation like they always were. "Runnin' Around" and "Punishing World" are classic examples. The snarly guitar (and sentiment) of "Gimme Love & Turn on the Light," which features Pop singing backup, channels timeless punk rock. "Rainbow Store" is a jaunty rockabilly track and the single, "Dance Like a Monkey," makes you want to do just that.
New York Dolls, "One Day it Will Please Us to Remember Even This," (Roadrunner Records)
New York Dolls still rocking to their own beat
Apr 27, 2009 10:00 am PDT
When the New York Dolls formed in 1971, their singular brand of rock 'n' roll elicited strong opinions. "People said, 'They're the best band,' or 'They're the worst band,'" frontman David Johansen recalls. "...
New York Dolls return, with attitude
Aug 9, 2006 9:51 am PDT
The New York Dolls never cared much about fitting in, only strutting to their brand of down and dirty rock 'n' roll. With the release of their first new album in 32 years last month, The Dolls are back sort of and looking t...