Dave Chamberlain

As startlingly good a record as I've stumbled across in six months, NYC-based Mommy and Daddy almost defy description. A two-person band composed of a boy (Edmond Hallas), a girl (Vivian Sarratt) and a drum machine, Mommy and Daddy are a candied, fuzzed-out and not-so-serious version of The Kills, comparable to the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and the Misfits, but rarely like either. With only a couple singles and whatnot released overseas only, the recently released "Fighting Style Killer Panda" (Kanine) EP is their domestic debut--and as domestic debuts go, it's a motherfucker. Kicking off with the crazy-catchy, massively fuzzed-bombed "Confection," Sarratt's voice almost bleeds sexy-pop-star against the backdrop of gritty, ugly guitar; throughout the record, Saratt and Hallas trade vocal duties, and neither fails once. There's a massive electronic influence--despite the pure rock `n' roll flavor of the record--but they're at their best when they're throwing punches, a la "Confection," or the electric bubble-fire that is "The Now." For anyone into seriously edgy, very modern-sounding rock `n' roll, check out the record. I withhold absolute recommendation, as I'm sorry to say I've not seen Mommy and Daddy live--yet. But if it's anything like the record, then, well, damn.

Mommy and Daddy play March 10 at the Bottom Lounge, 3206 North Wilton, (773)975-0505.

(2005-03-08)

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