The Puppini Sisters
Betcha Bottom Dollar
Verve Records


This debut disc by the irresistible Puppini Sisters proves once again that sometimes the best way to progress is to take a few steps back. Inspired by vocal trios like the Boswell and Andrews Sisters, this “family” (“sister” Steph’s actually an “O’Brien”) does three part vocal harmony to absolute perfection. In what could have been a simple nostalgic trip down memory lane, the sisters go beyond performing the regular canon of 40s nostalgia like “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Bei Mir Bist Du Schon” and tackle modern songs with irreverent aplomb. Disco Queen Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” is drastically improved upon by these 8 to the bar divas, as is Blondies dreadful “Heart Of Glass.” These songs, as well as Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights” have the dents taken out of them, primed and finished with a brand new coat of paint, looking fresh with shining chrome. The supporting band keeps close to the bohemian/Hot Club of France feel with swinging guitars, percussion, and various special effects. Fresh, fun and frenetic, these ladies make nostalgia seem brand new.


-George W. Harris