Amanda Palmer's Solo Dive: Beyond the Dolls

Amanda Palmer, the creative force behind The Dresden Dolls, has released her solo album, "Who Killed Amanda Palmer." This collection draws from a decade of songwriting, featuring incisive lyrics and a diverse range of musical styles. Producer Ben Folds played a significant role, expanding the project beyond Palmer's initial solo vision.

The album opens with "Astronaut," a dynamically arranged track that showcases Palmer's theatrical flair, followed by the frenetic "Runs in the Family." In contrast, "Ampersand" offers a more intimate piano ballad, potentially signaling a desire for independence from her established duo sound.

"Who Killed Amanda Palmer" reveals itself as a broad collection of rich character studies. Tracks like "Leeds United" and "Blake Says" explore themes of escapism, addiction, and isolation. The album also touches upon societal issues with "Strength Through Music" and "Guitar Hero," while "What's the Use of Wond'rin'?" features a guest spot from Annie Clark.

Despite some questionable choices, such as the controversial "Oasis," the album highlights Palmer's strengths as a lyricist. Songs like "The Point of It All" and "Another Year" underscore why a solo spotlight might have been beneficial for these particular pieces, allowing them to find new listeners.