Dum Dum Girls, Crocodiles: Concert Review and Photos

Last week was a treat for those who find themselves giddy when it comes to indie lo-fi bands who borrow stylistic songwriting skills from the past. SoCal bands, Dum Dum Girls and Crocodiles, were set to play two LA shows and we made sure we caught the first show – which was, of course, sold out. The fact that it sold out didn’t surprise us and the fact that kids were still lining up outside The Echo still hoping to get in wasn’t shocking either. This was the kind of show to start your weekend out with even if it was still Thursday.

We managed to catch Weave! and Dunes play some short sets but waiting in front of the stage during those bands only made us more anxious for what we came for: The double headliner of San Diego’s Crocodiles and Los Angeles’ darlings, Dum Dum Girls.

Finally, Crocodiles came piling on to the stage as there were plenty of them to take up room. Looking like bad boys little girls dream of dating one day, the boys (almost all in matching black leather jackets) brought their own red gels which made it a bit hard to see the stage but definitely made for a dramatic effect. It seemed to only add on to their attitude once the music started. What happened on stage was simply what we call swagger. Although they may have looked like they fit in more at The Viper Room, their lo-fi punk melodies sounded right at home at The Echo. With the lead vocalist moving uncontrollably about on stage – knocking over a microphone stand at one point – we couldn’t help but wonder if they were trying to reincarnate The Ramones. Crocodiles performed without a care for anything except for being in the moment even if it meant ignoring some unnecessary feedback during one of their songs.

Naming themselves after an Iggy Pop song, Dum Dum Girls matched the level of rebellious rock with their set. Led by “Dee Dee Penny,” all girls were also dressed in black but exuded much more femininity which only made the guys in the crowd go even wilder. Their outfits may have been sparkly and their lipstick may have been bright red but these girls went beyond the good looking (and naughty) girl band who can play instruments. Well-known songs such as “Jail La La” and “Bhang Bhang, I’m A Burnout” live managed make the art of seduction and DIY punk equivalent. Not only were all the harmonies spot on but this was just one of the many reasons that justified the sold out show.

Check our photos out below!

Photography by Carl Pocket