RETRO
DOLLS FROM HIPSVILLE - Dollsquad
(self released)
From the cheesy pink cover art and co-ordinated mini skirts, I pegged this
as just another throwback '60s go-go girl band. Please, not another Josie
and the Pussycats - as cool as the 
cartoon
was, I don't want the soundtrack. Just shows (again) how stupid it is to judge
a book (or EP) by its cover...
There's almost as much pop history packed into the four tracks here than the
whole series of "Walk On By", and it's played with gusto, finesse
and spirit. And as much originality as rocking garage pop can muster these
days. From the slinky bassline, perfectly pitched backing chorus and climbing
chord progression of "Baby Doll" (the centrepiece) to the vaguely
new wave-ish Motor City tribute "Roll With You", it's tremendous
stuff. "In the Meantime" and the bouncy "Boy From Germany"
aren't half bad either.
Dollsquad hails from Melbourne and its core is singer Joey, guitarist Julie
and bassist Janet. The sharp-eyed will note Clare Moore is behind the drum
kit, erstwhile drummer for Dave Graney's bands and The Moodists. If you're
going to hire an extra hand, you might as well go for a Recorded live (as
many great ones are) at Sing Sing with a few guitar overdubs, "Retro
Dolls..." sounds engaging, immediate and fresh. Like the Crystals on
a Harley, or the Shirelles with a rock heart, riding four songs that are short,
sharp and to the point.
These gals have shared a bill with The Stems and the 5 6 7 8's and if their
studio work is an indication they measure up well enough to headline in their
own right. The basis of all good rock and roll is the engine room and Janet
and Clare take care of that. Joey has an excellent range and her vocals aren't
far removed from those of Alix of the Spazzys. Guitarist Julie (lots of 'J'
names in this band) does a lot more than strum barre chords, her tone clean
with just the right touch of raunch.
Melbourne seems to be prolific in its recent output of girl bands (the aforementioned
Spazzys and Remake Remodel two others with impressive claims) so Dollsquad
is in good company. It's hip to be retro when you do it your own way. The
only question is: Why wasn't it an album?
–
The Barman
