With support from Jack White (yes, The Jack White) one might expect this trio (the fourth gal, Christina Norwood, is their session keyboard player) to be far more famous. The low profile of the release is no way an indicator of the album's quality. Inside, the self-titled album is packed with a unique sound built around a strong White Stripes influence. These ladies have taken the stripped down Garage Rock sound Mr. White is known for, & run with it into a different direction. Dropping the Bluesy elements, these girls have incorporated rockabilly & surf, wrapping with a sexy Southern Gothic veneer. Experimenting with rockabilly & surf, The Belles write in a real, non-contrived style; despite having a decided Witchy feel about them. Standouts like
"In a Cage",
"Wishing Well" &
"Honkey Tonk Horror" blend the early 60's with broomsticks, black cats, fuzzy distortion & modern Rock 'n Roll. Certain cuts lead more towards the past, e.g.
"Hey Velda"; while others are more thoroughly modern , such as
"The Tease". In the mix they've thrown strong hooks, catchy riffs, spooky keyboards, a few solos & underplayed sex-appeal. I myself have played the album over at least 12 times, finding it infectious & bewitching. Overall, a truly unique record that has been criminally overlooked.
Best Tracks: In a Cage; Honkey Tonk Horror; The Tease; Not Tonight
