Their website says: ‘Prima Donna, saving your ears from the doldrums of the "Alternative" and delivering what the music scene has been waiting for. A look, a sound, a presence, and a reason to go back to Sunset Strip.’ However, the songs are more reminiscent of Johnny Thunders, and classic British glam of the 1970’s, rather than the typical 1980’s Sunset Strip sound. Dummy Luv in particular reminded me of T-Rex.

They have a saxophone player, which really gives songs like Double Crosser, Miss Avenue and Crucify something a little bit different. There is also heavy use of piano, and with all the choruses being extremely catchy, this would be a great album to dance to.

Stray Doll would probably be my highlight of the record, with Kevin Preston’s punky singing being complemented by the rest of the band’s backing vocals.

The only criticism I would give is that perhaps some of the songs began to sound a little samey towards the end of this 11 track album. But that’s a minor criticism as on the whole, the songs are memorable and great fun. None of them are dull, and the record is thoroughly enjoyable throughout.

Although there seem to be quite a few new bands on the scene who offer this type of Iggy Pop/New York Dolls sound, Prima Donna would be one of the better ones I have heard. For a band who have been together for less than two years, this is overall an impressive debut with good, solid tunes. Let’s hope that with more media exposure and more touring (like the UK, hint hint), Prima Donna can become well-known.
6/10
Suzie

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