THE DONNAS
Bitchin'
Purple Feather Records 2007
www.thedonnas.com

Read the Torry Castellano interview (2005)

Live Donnas pics 2005

Genre
Hard rock / rock n roll

The Good
“Bitchin’” is a slow and dark as it begins. The long instrumental makes you feel as if something great is going to happen. As the track draws to an end, the lyrics let you know for sure that something great is going to happen. I’m sure this one will be used as their entrance song. The riff-oriented song “Don’t Wait Up For Me” makes it clear that the relationship is over. Pounding drums and arena-rock driven riffs dominate “What Do I Have to Do.” Vocalist Brett Anderson begs and pleads with the object of her affection here. “Save Me” keeps the arena rock riffage in tow and adds a shout-along chorus.

“Like an Animal” is sure to make any man’s blood boil with its hot and sexy lyrics. The Donnas prove that men aren’t the only ones with naughty and carnal thoughts. Anderson declares that it’s “Better Off Dancing” than spending time with a deadbeat. The chorus of “Smoke You Out” is loaded with lots of melody. “Girl Talk” shows how vindictive and vengeful young girls can be with each other, especially when rumors are spread. “Give Me What I Want” makes blackmail sound oh so good.

The Bad
Nothing notable

The Verdict
Bitchin’ is a little more raw sounding than previous major label efforts by The Donnas, but I think it’s the indie labels that do them the most justice anyway. On their latest, The Donnas delivery plenty of arena rock anthems, memorable hooks, catchy lyrics, and powerful rock and roll energy. The album title truly lives up to its name.

Did You Know?
The Donnas were originally known as Ragady Anne.

Rating: out of 5

--George Dionne