Although all labels are odious, I’ve come to like the term “post-cabaret” as a way of referring to an interesting and diverse group of musicians, including:

Regina Spektor
Regina Spektor		 Nellie McKay
Nellie McKay		 Casey Dienel

Casey Dienel		 Dresden Dolls
Dresden Dolls

All share a few central themes – female lead vocals, piano as the dominant instrument – strong melodies indebted as much to the “standards” as to indie/alternative popular music. (I think all are indebted as well to Tori Amos, bringing the energy and drums of punk rock to female vocals and piano performance).

Sharing the label post-cabaret does not mean, however, that they sound alike, or that anything cookie-cutter is going on – each of these artists adds a different take on the general theme.

To hear more, check out the following links in addition to the official links above: