Sweet Sweet Lies - Overrated Girlfriend

by Lisa Torem

published: 8 / 5 / 2010

Label: Dumb Angel
Format: 7"

Perfect combination of contrasts on distinctive new single from Brighton-based band, Sweet Sweet Lies

Review

Fascinated with oxymorons were singer/songwriter/guitarists Dominic Von Trapp and Michael Hayes when they set out to create a band that addressed truth, but still embroiled fantasy. Therefore, Sweet Sweet Lies became not just a band name, but a prototype for their pairing of opposites. Along with Ken Box (keys), Matt Sparkes (bass), Toby Horton (drums) and Kris Jones (trumpet), they formed the band in Brighton in 2007. Hayes and VonTrapp shared a deep admiration for the Beatles, Dylan and Leonard Cohen. Their single: ‘Overrated Girlfriend/The Day I Change’ is awash with those distinctions. The first cut is loaded with clever observations. “She turns me on and spits me out/Dhe’s beautiful and kind of rough.” VonTrapps’s vocals are savage, yet inviting; similar in texture to the iconic Tom Waits. The lyrics are crisp, concise and direct. The song, as a whole, rattles across a bawdy burlesque interstate. ‘The Day I Change’ is a perfect contrast. Now, Von Trapp casts a comforting Sinatra-esque croon over the brimming guitar flavouring. This song is a piercing slice of life seasoned with confessions. “The only things I’ve even planned are meals and how to die/The pressures of this life are eating me alive,” VonTrapp admits. Listening to this teaser will merely whet your appetite. Believe me, after catching up with ‘Overrated Girlfriend’ you’ll be banging your plate on the table and shouting “more.”