Review | The Dollies – ‘What Would Your Mummy Think?’

By Saffire Williamson

The Dollies are an up-and-coming band local to the music scene of Falmouth; riddled with female rage, expressive guitar and Hanna-esque vocals. Their distinct riot girl sound is amplified to the most unapologetic extent with their debut EP ‘What Would Your Mummy Think?‘

Their first track ‘In The City‘ immediately establishes what this band is all about: discussing, exposing, and derailing the male expectations placed upon women. From their perfectly juxtaposing lyricism “Tied up in a pretty bow, I’ll put on a fucking show” – capturing the reclaiming nature of riot girl punk music which this band embodies so naturally – along with the progression of invigorating lead guitar, this track is the perfect introduction to the force of nature that is The Dollies.

Both the second and penultimate tracks of this EP are so clearly reminiscent of other female-led bands of the past like Bikini Kill and Bratmobile. Their secondary track entitled ‘Smile More‘ – a saying that rings true to the ear of nearly every woman who has had the misfortune of dealing with the demeaning nature of men in public – followed on by song three ‘Say It Again‘ are two vehement confrontations to the patriarchy, tied together by heavy basslines and smudged mascara.

The song this band so graciously leaves us with is “Every Little Hurts” – a song dealing with an issue we as the British public all have a distinct passion for: the surging price of meal deals. With their witty intertextual lyricism, the sharp vocals of front woman Luigina Colonna, and the band’s enticing authentic punk musicality – this song is not only structurally impressive but also a spectacle to see live.

Along with the release of this EP, The Dollies also gift the anticipating night life of Falmouth their EP release gig ‘The Dollhouse’ at The Cornish Bank supported by Shoes Off, Tony Fox Band, and Commoner – a night not to be missed!