Who Killed Amanda Palmer??

[Donachiel]

"Hey ho, let go"

Better known as the vocalist, composer and piano of Brechtian Punk Cabaret band 'The Dresden Dolls', Amanda Palmer's first 'solo' album hit shops late last month. And I - being a big fan of the dolls - was mixed with both excitement and dread. Is she going her own way from Brian Viglione (the drums in the duo)? Or is this going to be so different that I wont like it?

According to an interview with Palmer the album came into being from having a collection of songs written for their second studio album 'Yes Virginia' that were all ballads. So they were never included on the album in a fear that it would become too slow. However, having recently released an album of "other material" from the recordings of their second album - called 'No Virginia' - then why were they not included?

After listening to the album - and hopefully, from the live show I'm going to next week - all becomes a little clearer...

Palmer, it seem, writes Dresden Dolls music on piano, getting a drum track from Brian later. These songs were still in the 'requires drums' heading. However, instead of getting Brian to add a drum track, she has done a solo project - of sorts...

Roll in Ben Folds - of his five, fame - who helps produce the music, along with Amanda. The result appears to be something that is all together another Dresden Dolls album - all the themes are there, it feels like a dolls album - but it is something different, and makes perfect sense to be on their own.

There is more drama to this album, and life. There are some lovely composed pieces, that go beyond the simple performances of just Amanda's piano, and Brian's drums. The music builds, and suddenly dies, and can truly be breathtaking. And I'm not just saying that.

The songs are new but yet so familiar. Amanda Palmer is still painting the same pictures, but with a broader palette. With songs about putting up with Domestic Violence, to soldiers trained by computer games and teenage pregnancy (or possibly pop music). These are great songs that deserve their on album.

I'm really looking forward to seeing her live next week, as this show should be something a little more, 'sensational' - at least that's what I'm guessing.

Looking forward to finding out the hard way...

D

[Earl]

Where is she playing?