BIG SHOUT Sissy Mary is a three piece from the Philadelphia area who have yet to play in Delaware, which is too bad, because judging from the demo, they're a good band.

I can't help thinking about Philly's Dr. Bob's Nightmare and More Fiends, mostly because both of these bands occasionally switch from male to female vocals, and that's something you don't see a lot. And, with titles like "Cartoons Scare Me" and "Smile, Someday You'll Be Dead" they have a sense of humor, even if it is a pissed off one. Man, these guys totally can't stand stupid mediocre people. And I ask you, isn't that what it's all about?

As far as the sound, I'd call it melodic punk rock n' roll. Not crazy hard or heavy, but not bouncy either. Cool guitar sound, especially on "Cartoons Scare Me" which sometimes has an almost surfy feel. I guess that's my favorite track on the tape, but I hope all of these songs make it on to the CD the band is planning to put together. Holly Quinn

Gretchen and the Sissy Mary Cat participating in the Rehobeth Beach Sea Witch Festival Parade/photo courtesy State News Sunday

SISSY MARY MEETS THE PIXIES!

ROCKPILE Sissy Mary sneaked a peek at the pages of an old Pixies song book and took the best ideas for itself. Everything here works nicely, from the male/female vocal pairings to the band's use of dynamics in volume and tone.

BIG SHOUT There is a place in South Jersey where punk lives for heads of all ages. It is called XYZ. I survived the "Almost All Girl" punk show on Friday the 13th. Sissy Mary, the Lotras, and the Kowalskis rocked the stage for a good four or five hours. Sissy Mary was kind of sultry and slow tempoed with a touch of pop. Several things make Sissy Mary unique.

First was the female guitarist Gretchen. Though seemingly quiet and thoughtful, on and off stage. She had a serene and attractive presence. She played both rhythm and lead riffs and sang with a conviction reminiscent of Courtney Love.

Interestingly, bassist Jerad is self taught because the band grew tired of looking for a bassist. He's done well for himself. I noticed some interesting progressions, especially on "Cartoons Scare Me".

Chris and I chattered in the back room for a while and he seems very sincere and into his place as the talented drummer of Sissy Mary. The band has a fairly dark style oddly enough, topped with easy and light riffs. The trio has performed in much of Philadelphia and it's surrounding areas and seems secure in their future as a band.