The Dresden Dolls paid a visit to Philadelphia’s Union Transfer for back-to back, sold out-performances. And what performances they were!

The Dresden Dolls are made up of the duo Amanda Palmer, singer\songwriter\pianist and Brian Viglione, drummer & guitarist. Palmer’s voice is dynamic, ranging from powerful belts to endings in soft, delicate whispers. Brian Viglione is one of the energetic and talented drummers you’ll find in music. He possesses the technical skills of a jazz drummer with perfect timing and precision with the powerful, driving rhythms of aa rocker, incorporating explosive driving rhythms and ultra-high energy beats.

Together, this duo put on one of the most colorful and entertaining performances in music. They blend punk and cabaret into a unique and theatrical sound and vision. They feed off each other’s intensity and dramatic flair.

Their songs blew me away. The subject matters are dark, addressing issues such as drug addiction “My Alcoholic Friends”. Betrayal and deception “Backstabber” Loneliness and sentimental emotion during the holidays “Another Christmas”. Even medical ethics “Mary Goes to Med School”. Yet these songs are wildly humorous and sexually charged, set in a ‘30’s German cabaret backdrop.  Providing an unforgettable musical experience.

Their unconventional personas and artistic genius are undeniable, and their performance far exceeded my expectations. The Dresden Dolls deliver a spectacle of theatrical and musical brilliance like no other.