One of Florida’s best kept secrets, Gargamel!
has been turning heads for years. Ask a local music
fan from Orlando and chances are not only have they
heard of this band named after the “Smurfs”
villain, but they’re probably a fan, too. Followers
include Grateful Dead Heads, Dave Matthews Band freaks,
hippies, yuppies, metalheads, and everyone in between.
It’s truly an eclectic blend of people, and
not many bands can boast such a fan base.
So what is it about Gargamel! that attracts such
an array of music aficionados? Think the zaniness
Mr. Bungle, the eerie keyboards of Marilyn Manson,
the metal quirk of System Of A Down, and catchy songs
to boot. Their closest peer is probably Dog Fashion
Disco, but not many people have heard of them, either.
So just put them in their own special category, and
you can make up the genre.
After a subdued beginning, opener “Da Devil’s
Bawlz” kicks into typical Gargamel! overdrive
with heavy and fast guitars courtesy Professor Knuckles,
driving drums and bass from Webb and Crazy Hector
respectively, and the manic screams of ringmaster
and vocalist Mandaddy. Servobeonic Man’s keyboards
shine on “We’ve Got A Situation Here.”
Mandaddy’s usual sense of humor and lyrical
wit is in full motion throughout, and the entire album
is a satisfying affair.
The live setting is where Gargamel! truly shines,
and new member Mas is currently on the drum throne.
If you ever have a chance to see the band live, do
it. It’s their bread and butter, and the reason
they have such an oddball mix of fans.
Key Tracks: “We’ve Got A Situation Here”
and “Favorite Fiend”
Reviewed by Chad Olson
|
