1.09.2007
Dirty On Purpose
I'm not a fan of their name or the way they seem to ostracize their sole female bandmate (now ex-bandmate) in all promotional pictures, but I have to admit that Dirty On Purpose has grown on me. I first heard of them a while ago, but found their name so unappealing that I put off listening to them. What a judgmental mistake that was. I completely missed out on their early 90s-reminiscent indie rock for x amount of years. Besides, they have the balls to make fun of themselves. A faux newspaper clipping on their website is entitled "Worst Band Name Ever?" I'm tempted to say so.

Formed in Brooklyn in 2002, Dirty On Purpose is compared to Yo La Tengo a lot, and for good reason. Vocal comparisons aren't far off, and the overall sound and feel of both bands, especially in Yo La Tengo's earlier stages, definitely share similarities. Melody-driven with heavy emphasis on the almighty guitar, Dirty On Purpose creates crashing waves of distortion and reverberation. Shoegazer band? Perhaps. The fuzzy, layered guitar riffs, subdued vocals, and reigning melodies prevalent in their music undeniably point in that direction. Bringing that feel back to the 2000s makes this band beyond noteworthy. With their latest release, "Hallelujah Sirens" and an extensive tour under their belt, Dirty On Purpose still has a couple shows to squeeze out. Check them out if you can!

A Few Shows They're Playing:
Jan. 12
Brillobox Pennsylvania, PA $6
Jan. 13 Division Avenue Arts Cooperative Grand Rapids, MI $6
Jan. 14 Tomorrow Never Knows Festival @ Schubas Chicago, IL $15

mp3 Your Summer Dress
mp3 All New Friends
mp3 Monument

Dirty On Purpose's Official site
Dirty On Purpose's Myspace