Just how influential were New York Dolls in the overall shaping of the musical (and aesthetic) landscape of the 70s and 80s is a well-known fact and there is absolutely no need for further analysis. It’s like trying to put down in words Motley Crue’s contribution to the L.A. scene of the early 80s (the example is not random, naturally)…
“Dancing Backward In High Heels” is the third studio album by the New York Dolls since its reunion a few years ago. Well, what would we expect from Sylvain Sylvain, David Johansen and Co. with their brand new offering? For starters, forget all about those rock n’ roll and proto-punk elements that characterized their very early records. Also, let aside those musical outburts and expect something more…mature (don’t be frightened by the word). Sliding the c.d. in the player, you could have sworn that you’re listening to those familiar vinyl sound on the vintage turntable while at the same time you could have been…beamed down in time (late 50s and early 60s would do…) and found yourself in a Soho pub drinking slowly your favorite ale. Maybe, the fact that the album was recorded in England played a vital role on this one…who knows? The truth is that, despite all of the above comments, the trademark Dolls atmosphere cannot pass unnoticed and one cannot miss Johansen’s unique voice and Sylvain’s sharp guitar licks.
“Dancing Backward In High Heels” is definitely a retro album forwarded to an eclectic and somewhat older audience that would be greatly satisfied by the New York Dolls return.
Highlight: The album is accompanied by a “making-of” DVD…
