They are a groovy band. Yeah, that might sound a little cheesy but it is appropriate. Dialtone is a groovy, 3 piece band from Los Angeles. They’ve released two EP’s; this review is for the second EP, Wait For. Their influences are old REM, Primus, White Stripes and sundry other bands. You can read the list at their My Space page.
Wait For has five tracks. While this is not the kind of music this old metalhead listens to, there is something infectious and nearly addictive about their songs. There is a definite streak of nostalgia buried in the music. The songs have a fuzzy, retro edge to them that is like listening to old vinyl records of the 70s band that our parents had. It’s that old, 8-track feel that makes this music so intriguing.
Yet, instead of dredging up horrendous polyester visions, Dialtone manages to be fun. They’ve got lots of energy and it is poured into the music. The opening song, “Get Me To Love You” has a short, snappy, instantly recognizable intro. Plus, it has one of those infectious choruses that just bounces around in your head for days.
The second track, “Making It Alone” has a fantastic, energetic opening. It’s great background music, whether you are wandering a mall or hanging with some friends and tossing back margarita’s. It’s not overpowering at all and the most retro of all the tracks. Number three slows the pace down quite a bit and gets just a tad boring.
“Two Left Feet” is the heart of the EP. It’s not just a background song that is just nice to hear. There’s real emotion wrapped in it’s blurry chords and muffled percussion. The adolescent sorrow is well crafted into a dancing metaphor.
For a spot of fun, Dialtone is a good bet. Their songs will oft come unbidden to the unconscious mind, so Paul and Mike Orea and George Maiale have obviously successfully crafted good music.
Article comments
1 - D.J, jacksonville
I and some friends went to listen and see Dialtone at Jack Rabbits and had a gret time. The band had us moving and grooving. They, as you mentioned, had lots of energy and were fun to watch and listen to. We hope they return soon!