Die Cheerleader Die--Chasing The American Nightmare
Self-released 2002
In spite of some very strong and talented female voices, punk rock has always been a bit of a boys club. Things aren't as bad as they once were in this regard, but it's still a rough road for female-fronted bands in this genre. That being said, if Chasing The American Nightmare is any indication, the road ahead should be a little smoother for Die Cheerleader Die than most.
Stylistically, the obvious comparison for Die Cheerleader Die is Bikini Kill--both play straightforward punk with girl-positive lyrics. However, to focus solely on that base comparison is to sell this band short. From a guitar standpoint, Chasing The American Nightmare resembles the NOFX album Punk In Drublic--the type of guitar distortion used is very metallic which gives these songs an extra sense of meatiness. Also, the alternating vocals of Marni and Lauren both bear similarities to the stylings of 440's frontwoman Wendy--gritty when they need to be (Die Cheerleader Die's growling vocals are supplied by Marni) or powerfully clean (Lauren handles this pace), depending on the situation.
Thankfully, Die Cheerleader Die are able to back up their good production with solid songs. People who crave the straightforward style of a band like Bikini Kill will lose their minds over tracks like "Angels In America" or the super-venomous "Anorexic Nation." That being said, Chasing The American Nightmare is at its best when the band mixes things up a bit. Look no further for proof of this than the CD's standout track, "Day To Live." Stretching beyond the bounds of a simple punk tune, this song incorporates some nice funky guitar work in the chorus sections which almost conveys a biker-rock vibe.
With Chasing The American Nightmare, Die Cheerleader Die have created a more than worthwhile listening experience. Nice production and solid songwriting make this CD deserving of a listen. As good as this is, one gets the impression that Die Cheerleader Die really tears off heads in a live setting--check 'em out when you can.
Score this CD directly from DIE CHEERLEADER DIE
|
