So I finally got a chance to catch Murder By Death the other night, and I must say I was duly impressed. Being a long time fan of the band, I could kick myself for missing some of their earlier treks through town. Despite sound being a little shaky behind the console, the performance was lively, intense, and about as moving as songs about zombie children can be.

    For those of you not acquainted with Murder By Death, their music is a unique blend, that is 3 parts whiskey, 1 part depression, and 2 parts punch the piano player, in a saloon full of pirates. Interesting stuff to say the least. The unique blend came together particularly well set against the backdrop of Orlando’s Backbooth (which is full of rustic furniture, and bar stools, and a good bit darker than most venues). Vocalist Adam Turla (who looks an awful goddamn lot like a younger Hugh Jackman), spent the evening equally channeling Johnny Cash and Glenn Danzig to great effect, telling tales that are best described as a sci-fi-spaghetti-western, written by Frank Miller. Likewise, the accompaniment of Sarah Balliet on cello and keys, magically transformed down tempo Queens Of The Stone Age riffs, into spindly Santeria dirges.

    Not to be outdone, both opening acts, Kiss Kiss and O’Death put on respectable shows that were both complimentary, but notably different from the headliners. The former easily won a new fan with their chaotic blend of shoegaze, progressive riffs, string arrangements, and raw punk energy. O’Death quieted any mind that might question if large bearded men should play teeny tiny instruments, and still be decreed to rock as well.

 If you haven't already, check out REAX's interview with Murder By Death, in this months issue!

Oh, and I snapped these cool pics as well - Mike DeLancett

Murder By Death Vocalist Adam Turla w/ REAX

Murder By Death Cello/Keys, Sarah Balliet

Murder by Death Vocalist Adam Turla

Kiss, Kiss

O'Death