The Dresden Dolls

The Dresden Dolls formed in Boston in 2001 as a duo of Amanda Palmer on piano and vocals and Brian Viglione on drums. Palmer's classical piano training met Viglione's self-taught, explosive drumming to create something that didn't fit neatly into existing categories. Their sound pulled from cabaret and punk, with a theatrical darkness that drew comparisons to artists like Kurt Weill and Tom Waits.

Their 2003 self-titled debut album included 'Coin Operated Boy,' which became a cult favorite with its raw vocal delivery and driving rhythm. Other songs like 'Girl Anachronism' and 'My Alcoholic Friends' showcased Palmer's provocative lyrical style and the duo's ability to balance melody with intensity. They followed with albums like 'Yes, Virginia...' in 2006 and 'No, Virginia...' in 2008.

The band went on hiatus in 2008 but reunited in 2010 for live performances and a live album called 'The Virginia Monologues.' Their music maintained a devoted following drawn to its unique blend of piano-driven arrangements and punk energy, with songs that often explored darker, theatrical themes without softening their edges.