That's What All The Girls Say is the new album from New Zealand cult band Ponsonby DC's. The band has been together for the better part of 20 years and have had success in their home country, but not much beyond.
The new album is an interesting amalgam of styles. There are definite influences of Lou Reed ("Pluto's Not A Planet Anymore"), Split Enz ("Television Man") and 60's vocal pop ("It's Too Late"). Throw in the odd country tune ("Cowboy Song"), surf strummer ("Little Baby You're Mine") and reggae-infused track ("Son of a Street Fighting Man") and you have an enjoyably eclectic concoction.
Almost every song is written lyrically in a tongue-in-cheek manner. There is humour and sarcasm just dripping all over these tunes.
Unfortunately, not all is good. The lyrics on "Pluto's Not a Planet Anymore" deal with global warming and other political issues in a pretty hamfisted manner. No subtlety or metaphor here.
The 70's easy listening sax that permeates several songs gets old quickly. I'll leave it to you to determine whether it adds a dated feel to the music or whether it's a case of every old being fresh again.
That's What All the Girls Say is an intriguing look at an underground icon from the other side of the world, but I would suggest hardly essential listening.
Best tracks: "Death Doom & Destruction", "Son of a Street Fighting Man"
Track listing for That's What All the Girls Say:
- Pluto's Not a Planet Anymore
- It's Too Late
- Girls!
- Son of a Street Fighting Man
- In Control
- Television Man
- Kissy Kissy
- Pink Flamingo
- Eat Dirt
- Futurist
- Little Baby You're Mine
- Death Doom & Destruction
- Just Another Kick
- Cowboy Song
- Motorbike
- Ponsonby Waltz
5.0
2 praise/complaints:
Thanks for the review but I cannot accept your view on the lyrics of "Pluto's Not a Planet Anymore". If they are hamfisted then a lot of great political songs are too. I took John lennon's advice and said what i meant, made it rhyme and put a back beat behind it. I'm very proud of the song, especially the lyrics. - Gavin Buxton, the Ponsonby DC's
Fair enough. Like everything I post, it is only my humble opinion (and personal preference).
For the record though, I have the exact same criticism for much of John Lennon's work.
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