After an initial burst on the local music scene in the mid-to-late 2000’s, New York’s The Dead Betties went on a lengthy hiatus in pursuit of individual growth. They now return with a new EP featuring single “The Way We Live Now” (streaming below). Crunchy guitar chords over a busy kick and resonant snare drum pattern create an immediate sense of urgency. “Never ever going to let you hold me down” is the initial vocal declaration, as guitars drop out and shift focus on a solid bass rumble. Lead singer–bassist Joshua Ackley’s original melody and impressive vocal range helps the band move beyond the constraints of the punk rock genre. Thematically the song draws its inspiration from Susan Sontag’s short story about the struggle for civil rights. The single release also contains two original b-sides as well as three unique cover versions of songs by Babes in Toyland, Britney Spears and Madonna! Not what you’d expect from a hard rock band, but the interpretations actually work. – Dave Cromwell
