The Dollyrots: Because I'm Awesome
Album Review for Pop-Punk Band's Sophomore Effort
A brief overview of the Dollyrots upcoming CD "Because I'm Awesome."
Los Angeles-based band, “The Dollyrots,” were able to propel themselves to relative fame with their debut album, which landed them not one but two record labels, various television spots and a stint with the 2006 Vans Warped Tour. How many new bands are lucky enough for all of that?
With a new line-up in place, Kelly Ogden (bass/vocals), Luis Cabezas (guitar) and Chris black on drums plan to pack even more punk/pop attitude into their second full-length album, released on Blackheart Records.
Founded by long-time friends Ogden and Cabezas, the Dollyrots were actually a side gig to let loose while the two pursued biology degrees. Shortly after graduating college, the pair decided to forgo med school altogether and turn to the band full-time. And that’s exactly what they did.
With the Dollyrots sophomore effort “Because I’m Awesome,” you get the best of both worlds – bubble gum sweetness mixed with punk attitude. It’s a combination not many bands can pull off, but The Dollyrots manage to do just that, and do it well.
The title track “Because I’m Awesome” blends sarcastic wit with catchy riffs that, trust me, you’ll have playing through your head all day long. What’s more, the Dollyrots are quite possibly the most ingenious band ever for pulling off the word “neato” in their song lyrics.
While the entire album seems perfect for turning up the speakers and dancing or singing along to on a road trip, there are a few songs on the album that definitely caught my attention. “A Desperate S.O.S.” is your typical political punk song, but it doesn’t make you feel like crap about the situation of the world.
“Watch Me Go (Kissed Me, Killed Me)” offers even the pickiest music consumer something to enjoy. A pseudo-ballad with rockin’ guitars, Kelly O’s vocals switch between your trademark punk growls to girlish innocence at the drop of a hat. Good stuff.
They even manage to pull off a cover version of Melanie’s “Brand New Key,” which blasts your eardrums on track 4 of the record.
Fronted by one of the “Hottest Women of Rock” according to Blender magazine, the Dollyrots are a band that has staying power. If you enjoy no-holds barred punk-pop, this album is a must-have.
Check out their Myspace and pre-order the Dollyrots “Because I’m Awesome” on Amazon today.
