Dot Dash - Winter Garden Light

by Anthony Strutt

published: 12 / 1 / 2013

Label: The Beautiful Music
Format: CD

Addictive second album from Washington DC punk/new wave act, Dot Dash

Review

This ten-track second album from Washington DC punk/new wave act Dot Dash is really enjoyable. It opens with 'Faraway', which is a very catchy garage-flavoured 80's rock number. Big drums melt into the rhythm section, while front man Terry Banks' vocals are somewhat dreamy. 'Countdown' again is very addictive. It jangles well with its updated C86 vibe, and is a decent number to sway your fringe too.'Two Octobers' is another jangly number, and is reminiscent of an experimental, raw-sounding R.E.M. 'Writing on the Wall' has a rough and ready tune. Hunter Bennet's sharp bass mixes well with Danny Ingram's deep drums, while Banks' vocals are sugary sweet 'La-La Land' is remiiniscent of the Beatles, and also has some classic new wave rhythms thrown in. 'Live to Tell' is a pleasant summertime trip.'The Past is Another Country' is punky and raw, sharp cutting riffs slip in and out, while vocally it is a happy affair. 'Shouting in the Rain' is very punky, featuring a Peter Hook-like bass line, before the tune goes off in an Undertones/The Only Ones direction. 'Lateral/Vertical' is well thought out tune, lyrically very clever, well paced and executed brilliantly.'The Devil's Road' ends the album, and is a big time anthem and a song to get the crowd bouncing along to. A decent, solid piece of work.

Track Listing:-

1 Faraway
2 Countdown
3 Two Octobers
4 Writing On the Wall
5 La-La Land
6 Live to Tell
7 The Past Is Another Country
8 Shouting in the Rain
9 Lateral/Vertical
10 The Devil's Road