NEW YORK DOLLS

Originally in existence for a mere five years, between 1971 and 1976, American rockers New York Dolls have become regarded as something of a cult act over the years. Influencing a plethora of bands from what became the punk, new wave and glam metal scenes after they'd ceased to be themselves, they were indubitably ahead of their time. It was only after they'd disbanded that critics would begin to refer to NewYork Dolls as punk because their style of music predated the inception of such a label. And it wasn't until 2004 when original members David Johansen and Sylvain Sylvain decided to resurrect the Dolls - bizarrely, at the insistence of Morrissey who used to head up the band's UK fan club in the seventies. Returning with only their fifth album to date, 'Dancing Backward in High Heels', they're still with drummer Brian Delaney who joined a year after their reformation, alongside the recently recruited Jason Hill on bass (of Louis XIV fame), while original Blondie guitarist Frank Infante also appears (although has since left the band's ranks). So what of the music? Compositions with a mid-tempo chilled rock/quasi-punk vibe are interposed with more up-tempo 60s/70s retro-spiced tracks throughout, and with an average playing time of just over three minutes per song, 'Dancing Backward in High Heels' is a well-paced, fun ride, chock-full of bite sized pieces of Dolls' sonics. While Johansen's Tom Waits-esque vocal delivery won't be to everyone's taste, and I'm guessing particularly to the casual rock listener, his uniquely gravel-toned voice does add a lot of depth to the Dolls' sound so, like it or not, one cannot deny its potency in the overall effect. Produced by Hill in Newcastle's Blast Recording Studios, songs have been embellished with a very retro/classic 70s feel but that's, of course, apposite for the band's intended aesthetic. New York Dolls are unlikely to win over many new fans with this latest offering although their established fanbase can rest assured that 'Dancing Backward in High Heels' sees Johansen/Sylvain, along with their latest recruits, as strong as ever. Also worthy of mention is the black vinyl effect on the actual CD, a nod towards the Dolls' retro essence, and a nice touch that can be appreciated by those who buy the actual thing in physical form. While not as groundbreaking as they once were, the New York Dolls have little need to be in 2011. After all, scenes are ephemeral, and 70s rock/punk/new wave are currently experiencing mass popularity. Okay then, without meaning to contradict myself, maybe 'Dancing Backward in High Heels' will find a new generation of fans.

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Blast Records

Album

DANCING BACKWARD IN HIGH HEELS

Review by Mark Holmes

RUNNING TIME:

37:15

RELEASE DATE:

14th March 2011

TRACK LISTING

1) Streetcake
2) Talk To Me Baby
3) Fabulous Rant
4) I'm So Fabulous
5) Fool For You Baby
6) Kids Like You
7) Round and Round She Goes
8) You Don't Have To Cry
9) I Sold My Heart To The Junkman
10) Baby Tell Me What You're On
11) Funky But Chic
12) End of the Summer

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

USA

"Compositions with a mid-tempo chilled rock/quasi-punk vibe are interposed with more up-tempo 60s/70s retro-spiced tracks throughout, and with an average playing time of just over three minutes per song, 'Dancing Backward in High Heels' is a well-paced, fun ride..."