Thursday, January 26, 2012

SLEEPYTIME GORILLA MUSEUM


Sleepytime Gorilla Museum are, and will always be one of my favorite musical ensembles in the history of avant-garde music (and possibly music in general). Their sound is so unique and powerful, and unlike most dime a dozen "experimental" groups that just swap between time signatures and vocal styles to seem "esoteric" or "different", SGM performs these acts flawlessly and always have a reason for what they do. Their music and lyrics are inseparable, and everything about them demands your undivided attention. The philosophies, metaphors, and intricate history woven into their music truly makes them stand out as something more than a band. Something much...MUCH more, which is what brings me to my next point: their live performances. Sadly I was never able to see the Museum perform one of it's many wonderful shows in person before they closed their doors, but it's impossible to discuss this group without praising their brilliant stage shows, which are not truly concerts, but more like otherworldly ceremonies, incorporating elements of improv, butoh dance, minstrel shows, and anything else the curators of the museum saw fit. Trust me, it's something else.
If you have never listened to these brilliant masterminds, I suggest you do so immediately.
GRAND OPENING & CLOSING
Part 1 and Part 2 
OF NATURAL HISTORY
Part 1 and Part 2
IN GLORIOUS TIMES
Part 1 and Part 2
Interview with the band
A
few
live
performances

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