Savannah Morning News
“There seems to be growing energy and optimism among independent musicians around town. We’re witnessing the maturation of venues, a burst of creativity from performers with a wide range of styles, and more frequent visits from some topnotch regional and national acts. Dare Dukes has been one of the drivers behind these movements since settling in Savannah a few years ago. I find Dukes’ music both cerebral and emotional—an intense combination.”
—Bill Dawers, Savannah Morning News, May 5, 2010
Folk World
“Dare Dukes impresses me with original, creative, open minded rock with a touch of alternative folk and a nice underground sound. Must be bought!”
—Eelco Schilder, Folk World (Europe), March 2010
Le Cri du Coyote Magazine
“Influenced by such varied personalities as the formidable Kurt Weill, throaty Tom Waits, and the post-punk Pixies, this young Californian has come onto the musical scene somewhere between folk, social-issue pop, and poetic rock with an album that’s rich—but way too short. In 30 minutes Dukes gives us a glimpse of a talent that seems limitless and leaves the listener hungry for more. Dukes’ compositions are deeply reflective of a uniquely American life, where the sane and the crazy co-exist. His songs take advantage of a pleasingly disorienting musical richness (including strings and brass) and varied rhythms, accompanying an especially acid yet plaintive voice. Let’s hope that the next album will confirm this very positive first impression!”
—Le Cri du Coyote Magazine (France), February 2010
R2 Magazine
“Dare Dukes’ latest album is a striking combination of chiming REM-esque alt.rock and minimalist acoustica. An aching exploration of modern Americana, Prettiest Transmitter of All is a stunning piece of work from the Savannah-based songsmith.
—R2 Magazine (United Kingdom), December 2009
Lyrics: “Kick + Holler” by Dare Dukes
Some kick and holler
And drop their suffering
Like a silver dollar
Into a Reno slot machine.
Lyrics: “From a Plane” by Dare Dukes
I measure the hours
in paper clips and fluorescent shadows.
The worker ant cowers
to carry out the will of his fellows.
Lyrics: “Lucas Goes to the Demolition Derby” by Dare Dukes
Big boys depend on grace,
Yard-sale helmet and a foam neck brace,
Back-end ramming power,
How recklessness flowers
at our subatomic place.
(more…)