Dolls step it up on debut EP “Leathered”
Naarm/Melbourne hard-working hard-rocking punk band Dolls have delivered their debut EP Leathered after a steady stream of punchy singles. Twelve minutes of anger, anxiety, tight riffs and humourous lyricism - the title is no lie. Thick, worn and tough - Dolls are nothing but trouble and I love it.
@dollstheband Leathered EP
After a fantastic year in 2024, with awesome singles like Drunken Ego, Piss in my Ear and Point the Finger along with stellar live shows at Old Bar, Cactus Room and more, Dolls have earned the ears of Melbourne punks. Genuine anticipation surrounded this release, and the band did not disappoint.
Opening with a biting sense of foreboding, The Crash dives right into the energy of the band’s menacing tone. Slowly, singer Lachie Gough tears into his struggles and fears, along with the rage that comes from unwarranted judgement. Guitarist Phil Panting’s frantic riffs blend discordantly with bassist James Francis’ steady but scary tones, building a brilliant opener full of the complex feelings of youth and city life.
Speedster I Wish blasts along at a feverish pace, sounding like cutters meets Dead Kennedys. A catchy track ruminating on the duality of giving a shit - I Wish is a Melbourne punk rock classic in the making.
Previously released singles Point The Finger and Piss in my ear blast through the centre of the release with earworm riffs and even more memorable choruses - particularly Point the Finger. It’s rebellious spirit is so infectious, it feels wrong to listen to it just on a set of headphones. This song should be played loud.
Closing track Northside Party is a hilarious take on the Melbourne northside lifestyle - complete with references to vapes, Docs and more - is somehow even more exciting on the instrumental side. Frenetic drumming from James Noonan highlights the brilliant dynamics of the song and the bands overall amazingly all-over-the-place style
A fucking great debut, Dolls are even more exciting live - and that’s where they shine brightest. Make sure to check this release out here and definitely catch them live at a venue near you soon.