This is a nice surprise – one of the press quotes accompanying this CD describes SHD as “like Gwen Stefani on a bad acid trip” and it’s a very fair reflection on a band that have the talent to go a very long way. To be honest the real star of the show is vocalist Crystal Grenade, who throws herself into all three tracks with aplomb. I don’t mean to patronise the rest of the band, but there’s a sparkle in the voice of the frontwoman which makes SHD stand out from a lot of other bands of this ilk.
While the harmonies and choruses are huge, SHD also manage to create enough grooves to get you to dance. ‘Tomorrow’ has a huge hook, while ‘Like Love’ is on the right lines too. This three tracker, self released, was recorded in Norway and has the attitude of a Joan Jett wth more poppy undertones. There’s energy and attitude in abundance and I think this is why this record sticks out as much as it does. The short finale of ‘SHD’ goes on to prove the band are far from one trick ponies, and although this is 10 minutes of spikey 80s influenced pop, you can tell Sadie Hawkins Dance are well on track to make an impact in 2006.
www.myspace.com/sadiehawkinsdance
paul