Naming your band Debbie Downer immediately suggests a thematic concept. Comprised of members from other more established local bands amusingly masking their identities in Ramones-style unity (all copping to the surname “downer”), their just released track "I Did It All For You" (streaming below) comes in advance of debut EP ‘You Know You’re Wrong.’ Drawing from iconic 60’s girl group motifs, The Shangri-Las tough-but-sweet boldness is updated to reflect modern day issues. That era’s call and response background vocals are grounded by a solid bass line and enhanced by free flowing surf guitar parts. The track’s sweetest moment arrives in the chorus, where the lyrics “you know you’re never gonna be anything at all” confirm the "downer" tendencies that inspired the band’s moniker. The group has a number of local shows coming up, including this Friday 5/5 at Monty Hall, 5/19 at Sunnyvale and appearances during The Northside Festival in June. – Dave Cromwell
