Dolly Varden’s music took a big leap with the release of their third album in June of 2000. Produced by Brad Jones at his live-in studio in Nashville, the band revealed a new creative maturity due to years spent on stages, in vans, writing songs and recording together. Dawson and Christiansen came up with an astounding group of songs built around a theme of enduring commitment (to marriage, to family, to music) that touched a nerve with critics and fans alike. Over the next year the band toured the U.S. from coast to coast making new friends and loyal fans along the way. At the end of the year the album appeared on many "Best of 2000" lists across the country. Early in 2001 The Dumbest Magnets was released in Europe by Flying Sparks Records which led to strong radio play, glowing press and a string of critically-acclaimed live performances in Paris, London and all over Britain.

"Dolly Varden are America’s best kept secret in years, and it’s criminal that we’ve been kept waiting to enjoy their music. Sadly, it’s going to stay that way unless we vote with our wallets. But rest assured, this is one statement that you can make without fear of disappointment. If this is an investment in the musical future, then things are looking bright. This is a fantastic album." - Roy Gregory, Hi Fi+, May 2001

Track Listing

Side One
1. Apple Doll
2. The Thing You Love Is Killing You
3. The Dumbest Magnets
4. Second Chance
5. Prograss Note
6. I Come To You

Side Two
1. Balcony
2. Be A Part
3. Along for the Ride
4. Too Good To Believe
5. Some Sequinned Angel
6. Simple Pleasure