PICK OF THE MONTH

THE DWARVES - COME CLEAN / EPITAPH.

If Dick Dale was in a punk band, the group might sound something like The Dwarves. The latest release, Come Clean, comes at you with twelve tracks of unrelenting madness refined in a way only The Dwarves can muster. The band mixes traditional punk melodies with a sound reminiscent of 60’s surf bands like–dare I say–the Beach Boys.

Not only do The Dwarves incorporate surf-rock guitar riff’s, but one can decipher a blend of sounds stemming from bands like the Ramones, Ministry, and Screeching Weasel. The best thing about a band such as this is that they take everything great about punk rock–from the 70’s all the way through the 90’s–and create a unique and unparalleled sound. Even your mom could get accustomed to the catchy, fast, fun, and edgy tunes. Well, maybe if she had green hair and pierced nipples.

For anyone familiar with The Dwarves, much of the content on Come Clean will be of little shock to you. It’ll be more like partying with an old friend and waking up with a mind-melting hangover. The Dwarves never cease to let you down, and anyone who has seen them live can attest to their outrageous stage presence. If you haven’t seen their show, I recommend making it a point to do so. However, the duration of the musical performance may be short-lived as they will surely destroy the stage, instruments, and perhaps each other. But be assured that any amount of money you pay to get through the door will be justified with sure-fire entertainment–Dwarves style. -Chris Stellaccio.