Taking their name from a 60s Jamaican ska anthology, the Dance Hall Crashers (DHC) have been rockin' the ska/punk scene since 1989. This September DHC introduced their latest CD on MCA, "Honey, I'm Homely". Over the last eight years, DHC has toured with the likes of Bad Religion, NOFX, Mighty Mighty Bosstones, and Pennywise, establishing themselves as one of the premiere groups in their musical genre.
DHC falls most predominantly into the ska category, though on their latest album, almost eliminating the trademark ska-style horns completely. The next closest style DHC might be considered is punk, but they really don't sound like any punk bands I know. So pretty quickly it's obvious that they've carved a little niche for themselves, though recently infringed upon by the hit sensation No Doubt, and comparisons are inevitable. This southern California quintet is fronted uniquely by two female vocalists, who offer the band a sort of 50s jazz/lounge feeling, though backed by edgy guitar-laden hooks.
While featuring borderline pop, upbeat music, and yet sometimes dark and sarcastic lyrics, DHC still has "...an indie mentality, and we're still entirely hands-on in every aspect." Their latest CD has very catchy lyrical and musical hooks that will keep you coming back for more. The dual vocals are powerful, yet fitting, and complimented perfectly by the strong guitar riffs of this 15 song CD. The retro-modern inclinations of this band offer new alternatives to punk and ska fans, but also offers a sound reaching into the shallow depths of pop. Definitely a worthwhile album.
