The Wild Body, Down Gown, Deathlist
Recommended
Portland’s Down Gown play with wiry poise, exuding unhinged, manic ferocity one minute, then shifting to melodies so mired in dissonant structures they almost seem surreal. Such is the story with the band’s forthcoming self-titled debut: “A Wish About You” explodes in the same sonic ooze as early ’90s crews like the Jesus Lizard, Unwound, and Chavez. Guitarist/vocalist Will Hattman adds confidence to the pocket-tight rhythm section of bassist Ben Munat and drummer Adam Draper on the Goo-inspired “Fast Forward,” a prime example of the band’s ability to mutate into something more accessible, despite its obvious affinity for bizarre guitar interplay. Down Gown will come out sometime later this year via Portland’s Cavity Search Records, but tonight get pumped for a nice preview of the new album. RYAN J. PRADO