John Maus (MP3s)
I returned from Austin, Texas only this evening, after being immersed in the information orgasm that is SXSW for an entire week +. The prospect of saying anything comprehensive about what went down this year is too daunting for a man fresh off a solid 24 hour stand-by airport sojourn, so I'll just drop a few mp3s on you for the moment and call it a post.
Ever heard of John Maus? He performed at the Todd P. showcase and verily scared the crap out of my friends with a very committed, intense and screamy lo-fi darkwave set.
He also played keys on a few Ariel Pink albums and your feeling about those songs will follow you here as well. They're much more mellow and 'verbed out than what he threw down upon us live.
John Maus - My Whole World is Coming Apart
John Maus - Just Wait Until Next Year
john maus is amazing. we've played with him here in LA and the crowd consensus was that he was jesus, crucifying himself on the cross up there on stage. absolutely inspired, totally weird, and kind of like watching a car wreck in slow motion... his work is mesmerizing.
Posted by: evangentials | March 18, 2008 at 04:14 PM
Funny you mention Jesus Christ.
Posted by: Marcus | March 18, 2008 at 09:01 PM
John Maus is a wunnerful guy. Here's a link to R. Stevie Moore playing with Ariel Pink's band with John back in 2005 : YouTubage of RSM vs. Pink (Note: it's in five parts)
Posted by: Krys O. | March 20, 2008 at 02:22 PM
I think it all comes down to what you guys are saying about Jesus. That's what makes him great - that his music triggers lots of ideas and feelings that you can't quite put your finger down on, allowing for the grandest comparisons. His live performance is brilliant, because if you REALLY love his music you'll just want to mutilate yourself right along with him during the performance. I'm so tired of people criticizing his music. Listen to all the key changes and odd time signatures, his intricate synth programs, lyrical hooks like social commentary, love and disillusionment. I think we're going to be hearing a lot more about John Maus in the future.
Posted by: andy warthol | April 08, 2008 at 03:46 PM
I was shocked to hear people didn't instantly love his work...??? I did. I feel like I met the sound I've been wanting to meet when I heard him.
Posted by: Betsy Vicegrip | April 09, 2008 at 04:09 PM