Dresden Dolls at Roadrunner

Amanda Palmer and Brian Viglione, a duo known for their intensity and theatrical flair, transformed the venue into a surreal cabaret of nostalgia, angst, and unfiltered emotion. From the moment they launched into “Good Day,” the crowd was captivated, swept up in the punk cabaret whirlwind that the Dresden Dolls have mastered.

Palmer’s powerful voice, combined with her emotionally charged piano, led the audience through hits like “Sex Changes” and “Backstabber,” each song carrying the raw intimacy that fans have come to love. Viglione's drumming was mesmerizing, punctuating every lyric with precision, especially during “Gravity,” a performance that reverberated through the room. Their chemistry was undeniable, each artist leaning into the music with an authenticity that amplified the already electric energy in the venue.

The setlist was a deep dive into the Dolls’ discography, including lesser-played songs like “Mandy” and “Whakenewha,” and it kept fans on their toes. “Modern Moonlight” was a haunting standout, its eerie lyrics and tense rhythm enhancing the already theatrical atmosphere. Palmer’s voice was at its most haunting in “Missed Me,” her playful yet sinister tone sending shivers through the audience.

Fan-favorite “Coin-Operated Boy” had the crowd singing along, while “Mass Ave” was a special ode to Boston that brought a sense of homecoming to the performance. The duo brought the show to an emotional high with “Half Jack” and “Girl Anachronism,” two songs that seemed to channel the collective intensity of the Boston crowd. The audience, fully entranced, clapped, shouted, and danced, reflecting the energy back to the band in a powerful exchange.

The night’s closing songs, “Truce” and “Sing,” felt almost like anthems. As they played “Sing,” the entire venue joined in, creating a harmonious echo that filled every corner of the room. It was a perfect ending, leaving the audience with a lingering sense of connection and satisfaction that only the Dresden Dolls could deliver.

The homecoming show was a theatrical experience, an emotional journey, and a powerful reconnection between the Dresden Dolls and their Boston fans. This was a performance that proved that, despite the years, the Dolls still own the stage in their hometown.