The Dirty Secrets -Outside Looking In (minialbum)

Wed 13th Sep, 2006 in Music Reviews

The first thirty seconds of The Dirty Secrets’ mini-album Outside Looking In starts off impeccably with moderate paced drumming, catchy guitars and a hint of synth. Though when the synths in ‘Best Friend’ become more apparent the band seemingly morphs into The Bravery, though to be fair The Dirty Secrets probably have a bit more substance as the synth playing is less piercing and more haunting. The theatricality in the singer’s voice could render a film clip where girls pack the dance floor or the band stands out in the desert and performs in front of a giant screen. But wait, that has been done before, by The Vines and The Killers, possibly the catalysts of this new West Australian act.

The vocals on the subsequent tracks are similar to Caral Barat’s though perhaps more edgy. There is a slight faux English accent apparent and in all tracks the lyrics range from being spoken to sung. The track ‘Wasting My Time’ is the most overpowering of the whole mini album but in the most off-putting way. The synth freak-out combined with smashing cymbals and high hats is initially exciting however they continue all the way through the tune to the point where listening becomes insufferable. It feels like The Dirty Secrets are aiming for a tune like local act Moscow Schoolboy’s ‘Use Me back’ however they don’t understand structure or restraint in composition.

The remainder of the mini album comprises of the same crazy synths, unruly drumming and typically indie vocals. However with performing at Big Day Out, playing alongside Wolfmother, Regurgitator and other impressive Australian rock acts, as well as gaining airplay on Triple J, I wonder if there is something I’m missing out on.