Tag: Mischief Brew

There are many bands that go by W.I.T.C.H. but this is the only one where it stands for “we intend to cause havoc.”

Bo Diddley may have written tonight’s opening cover, and Spoon may be the one actually performing it, but the spirit of Billy Childish, whose version earworms its way through my head every year or so, is quite strong on the shambling, end-of-the-rehearsal vibe heard here. To the listeners voicing strong opinions about the adorably shrill kids’ story that runs at the top of The Final Hour — your notes have been passed on to Management.

The macabre sounds of The Bad Man will appeal to those who like dark carnivals and shadowy ringmasters rasping out bits of polka, sea shanty, ska, and more.

Despite coming from the hollers of Portland, Oregon, Hillstomp still manage to churn out the kind of thrumming crackle only a guitar-and-washboard duo can provide.