GUTTER DEMONS - Misery, Madness & Murder Lullabies

By Jackie Hall - Bridge the Gap - 05/13/2008

It is rare that I embark on the task of writing album reviews…or any kind of review for that matter. My mother raised me with the saying, “if you have nothing nice to say then say nothing at all.” While anyone who has listened to BridgetheGap before knows that I don’t follow these wise words so well when speaking, I do try when writing -- it is a time to be more reflective. Anyways, I’ve finally heard a new album worth writing about, and the best part is that the band in question is from Montreal.

Yes, the Gutter Demons, a local psychobilly outfit have release their third full-length album, independently of any label. This most recent installment, Misery, Madness & Murder Lullabies, is a gem. There is no other word that better describes the record.  I warn you now though, if you feel the need to go out and buy it tomorrow, expect that it will not sound like their previous two albums, Enter the Demons (2003) or Room 209 (2005). Misery, Madness & Murder Lullabies has touched more on the Gutter Demons’ country influence; it is much more smooth, relaxed and mature than their previously ghoulish, slapping punk-rockabilly style.

This seems to be a trend among many psychobilly bands that are slowly either getting tired or too old to be playing the traditional formulas of the genre (i.e.: Tiger Army and Mad Sin). However, the Gutter Demons seem to have made the transition much more naturally while not disappointing existing fans in the process. But don’t worry, not every tune is a ballad. They still have stuck with dark and dreary subjects in their lyrics, as implied by the title -- they just don’t sound as overtly demonic. Doesn’t mean they sound like angels either.

Tune in to BridgetheGap with Jackie every Tuesday  from 8pm – 10pm