On the Record with Dengue Fever

By Jessica Galliart
Published: July 14th, 2008 | 10:05am

After the early-2008 release of their third album, Venus on Earth (M80), Dengue Fever is still bringing the heat with its hip-popping, energy-filled shows. The sextet (vocalist Chhom Nimol, bassist Senon Williams, drummer Paul Smith, keyboardist Ethan Holtzman, and guitarist Zac Holtzman) is heading a revival of 1960s Cambodian rock — a combination of psychedelic rock and Cambodian melodies — with a sound that’s classic, yet fresh, and playful, yet sophisticated. Dengue Fever is currently on an extensive tour that bounces them back and forth between Europe and the States, but the Los Angeles–based band took a few moments to recommend five classic, must-have albums to cure any symptoms of musical boredom.

Chhom Nimol
Blondie
Parallel Lines (Capitol)

Every song is a gem, and I like the ’50s vibe on some of the tunes. Deborah Harry's voice gives me the chills. Parallel Lines was the record that I would stand in front of the mirror and pretend to sing along to with a brush as a microphone in my hand.

Senon Williams
Sly and the Family Stone
There's a Riot Goin’ On (Epic)

This album is the most insane recording I have ever heard. You can hear the tracks being punched in, instruments randomly popping up or totally going out of key; yet the music is perfectly placed, and the deep soul that penetrates through all the sweet distortion is mind-blowing. I will yearn for this record no matter how many times it passes my ears.

Paul Smith
Ultramagnetic MCs
Critical Beatdown (Roadrunner Records)

It opened the door for abstract lyrics and creative sampling. [Primary producer] Ced-Gee had all sorts of classic breakdowns coming in and out. Everything got chopped up and spit out in a vainglorious way. “Give the Drummer Some”! He deserves it after carrying around all that heavy shit!

Ethan Holtzman
Tom Waits
Swordfishtrombones (Island)

Whether it's a soldier coming home with a party in his head or a used-furniture salesman who can't stand his wife's totally blind Chihuahua, Tom's lyrics are equal to or greater than the works of Charles Bukowski. The marimba, accordion, and double bass are just an added bonus.

Zac Holtzman
The Beatles
Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band (Capitol)

I could name something more obscure, but then I'd be lying. "She's Leaving Home" has the most emotional use of strings I've ever heard.

Dengue Fever MySpace