The Dresden Dolls: sonic cabaret

The Dresden Dolls, known for their German-cabaret inspired version of alternative rock, will celebrate their sixth anniversary of musical collaboration on Halloween. The group is Amanda Palmer - who takes care of vocals, piano and songwriting - and Brian Vilgione, who provides the drumset rhythm. "Dresden Dolls," the pair's 2004 debut album, won favor for its minimalist take on pop and punk influences and the song "Coin-operated Boy." This summer the group toured as an opening act for emo-rock darlings Panic! At the Disco - and have described the experience as less than stellar. The music video for "Backstabber" chronicles the tension in satirical, silent-movie style, pitting the two bands against each other in a battle to the death. Tonight, The Dresden Dolls will play at The Lincoln Theatre in Raleigh - they've played The Cave and Cat's Cradle in recent years - as part of a tour to promote their new album, Yes, Virginia . Diversions Editor Margaret Hair spoke with Brian by phone on Tuesday afternoon about costume choices, audience interactions and the Dresden duo's dynamic.