The Prettiots

The Prettiots

The Prettiots are an American all-female alternative rock and indie pop group from New York, associated with Brooklyn in their early activity. The group includes Lulu Landolfi and Rachel Trachtenburg, with Kay Kasperhauser also listed as a member in the band’s history. Rachel Trachtenburg serves as the drummer briefly.

Background

In 2015, the band performs five shows at SXSW, after which NPR music critics Bob Boilen and Robin Hilton praise them. They are then signed to Rough Trade Records.

Recordings and style

The Prettiots release their first full-length album, Funs Cool, in 2016. The record receives positive reviews for its blunt lyrical honesty, its prominent use of the ukulele, and its inventive versions of songs by The Misfits and Dolly Parton. Reviewers also note that the group subverts expectations around independent bands fronted by women and using ukulele, especially the idea of being “cutesy”.

The single Suicide Hotline is particularly noted for its sardonic humour and direct treatment of mental health. Katie Presley of NPR describes it as placing sharp observations between sweet harmonies and playful ukulele strumming.