Dragonette

 

Has electropop eclipsed guitar based indie rock this year?  With acts like M.I.A, Santogold, MGMT, Cut Copy, Hot Chip, Justice, Crystal Castles and Ladyhawke among the many that are making room for synth based rock, it's not a surprise that more and more electronic oriented bands are breaking through.  One such band is Dragonette, from London by way of Toronto.  A four piece consisting of Martina Sorbara (vocals), Dan Kurtz (bass), Joel Stouffer (drums), and Will Stapleton (guitar), the group is solidified around the married union of Sorbara and Kurtz who serve as the bands iconic face.  Before being serious players in the international electropop arena, Dragonette have worked with Cyndi Lauper, and have toured as support for New Order, Duran Duran, and Basement Jaxx.  Kurtz, also a producer, has worked with Feist back in 1999.  And the band's song "Get Lucky" had placement in commercials.  If that wasn't enough, Perez Hilton is a fan.  Not too shabby for a band with one EP from '05 and a full length "Galore" from '07 (although just released in the US recently after a label change and a fresh start).  And now the band has that same song "Get Lucky" on the Hotel For Dogs movie soundtrack.  Image is equally as important to Dragonette, fully embracing the wild retro-futuristic style popular in the 80s, from their graphic design to their on-stage costumes to their dance fueled new wave.  While it's still pop music, Dragonette makes an edgy modern soundtrack filled with perversive moments of female vocals and pulsating melodic beats.  With songs titles like "Jesus Doesn't Love Me" and subject matter ranging from sex addiction and prostitution, this isn't your big sister's dance music.  It's jaded, seductive, and not for the faint of heart.  Just what's needed for 2009?  By the looks of it, Dragonette is poised to take over the indie electronic scene, subversion and all.

You can catch a listen of Dragonette's cover of ZZ Top's "Sharp Dressed Man", which was from Buffet Libre's Rewind project - a comprehensive 80s covers list.  While not quite the down and dirty vibe of their own work, it gives you a good idea of the musical content.


Dragonette - Sharp Dressed Man

Dragonette - band site / i surrender / myspace

Comments

[Jamie]

I am surprised that I actually liked this song.
It is just as you described it, though from what I could make out, it is the exception and not the rule in there music. I wish that they would carry on down this unexpected interesting road some more.

[GeeCee]

Dragonette is a great band!

I just wanted to mention that the photo you have posted is with the old guitarist! Will Stapleton is newer and cuter and has been with the band for the past two and a half years.

Cheers!

[marc]

such a great track!!! i can't wait for dragonette to release new music..
have a good day

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