aaamusic | On 07, Jun 2011

‘Cannibal Courtship’ is the new album from LA sextet ‘Dengue Fever’.

Opening with the title track ‘Cannibal Courtship’, Dengue Fever instantly display their unique sound of smooth psychedelic pop rock fused with elements of Cambodian pop. Followed by ‘Cement Slippers’ which shows off Dengue Fever’s versatility and range, with the introduction of guitarist and vocalist ‘Zac Holtzman’ who accompanies lead vocalist ‘Chhom Nimol’ paying excellent homage to 1960s psychedelia. Dengue Fever continue in this fashion of leaving us in constant wondering of what’s next? Their unique, fresh take on the current music scene is brought home with their third track of the this eleven track album ‘Uku’ which vividly displays their Cambodian pop influence drawing directly from its repertoire of elements.

‘Only Friend’ conveys the fusion and diversity of the Dengue Fever, as it portrays the combination of inspiration that influences the band in order for them to create a fresh, independent sound making them a genuinely unique band with a very persuasive and likeable sound. In addition to their unique instrumental abilities and experimentation of genres, Dengue Fever also display a frank narrative of lyrics, a trait which is very prominent in ‘2012’ which describes in just under four minutes, the apparent end of the world whilst being accompanied by the band’s signature sound, of course.

Overall, a brilliant album from a one-of-a-kind band definitely one for those of you who think outside the box or step out from it occasionally, stand on top of it and say ‘Ha! Take that box.’

Author: Khadija Pandor