Do you ever wonder why rock 'n' roll still gets you off? After almost half a century of the genre, you'd presume that it's all been sung and played. Jazz fans and those fixated on electronic music would probably agree with the above statement, wondering why people bother hearing another blast of guitars and three chord progressions. I don't know what your personal raison d'ętre is for looking for your next rock 'n' roll fix, but mine is twofold: getting to experience another round of candid sincerity and listening to a genuine portrayal of base emotions without any corporate schlock. As I walk around singing ridiculous DQE songs to myself, disturbing others on the street, I realize that Grace Braun and company embody these two elements and have clandestinely transferred them, enabling me to continue tottering down the rock 'n' roll trail with a big goofy smile on my face.
Ms. Braun isn't afraid to sing a bit off key. She's more concerned with getting into your head, and the genuineness of her music is an apt vehicle for this easy journey. Bursting full of energy and a drive to stick it to you ‘til the end of every tune, Braun clearly loves her music, whether you fancy it or not. As a matter of fact, as Braun's voice crosses the speakers, you feel a strange yet comfortably strong connection to her; she truly represents the innocent fun that music can bring.
There aren't too many things more enjoyably stupid than the opening track, "Go Bananas", with its repetitive, title-inspired chorus and minimal supporting lines. However dumb it may be, it’ll drag you out of any slump you may be in, and you'll catch yourself singing along with Grace after only a few phrases. The rockabilly-inspired "Halloween Song" hauls ass through a syncopated story about a poisonously delicious romance. "Take It Easy Baby" will tease you with its flirtatious storytelling and rambunctious vocal outbursts. You even get a brilliant cover of Half Japanese's "One Million Kisses", making The Queen of Mean a must-have CD.
I'm obviously a latecomer to the DQE army, as Braun has been doing this scene since high school. Don't make the same mistake I did and wait for another few releases before deciding to enlist. Sugary sweet and as sincere as it gets, listening to DQE is like checking out your best friend's band and thoroughly enjoying every bustling note. I've been spell-struck by Braun, and you will too after you discover her clever wit and undeniable songwriting genius.
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