Tea and Revenge by Dirty Martini

a Review by Anna Maria Stjärnell

Dirty Martini is Lara Mitchell, Stephanie Schneiderman and McKinley with Ned Failing.

I've written about McKinley's solo effort "Goner" here and it was a lovely album. This group effort is a strong album too.

"Blooming" is a like a rootsier take on the Breeders sound, it's got an unflappable tempo and a catchy chorus.

"Princess Wave" is pure Americana, all plaintive vocals and strummed guitar.

"Strong Swimmer" reminds me of Kristin Hersh. It's equally stark and expressive but still accessible. The spooky lyrics and haunted harmonies stand out.

Throughout the three women sing and play together like it's all they've ever done. They seem well suited to be a group and it makes this album special.

Posted on November 18, 2006