So, what’s happened in the world of GWAR since the world’s foremost comedic shock-rock band last visited Bend a year ago?
The big news is that these true monsters of rock returned to their longtime label, Metal Blade Records, to release their 11th studio album, “Lust In Space.” It’s yet another blast of delightfully dumb thrash metal that Ryan Ogle called a “welcome return to GWAR’s glory days” on www.blabber mouth.net.
Perhaps that’s true. But we all know GWAR’s music is really just a soundtrack to their live show, which famously features act after act of fake brutality, gallons of gross goop flung at fans, and more laughs than a year’s worth of Jay Leno’s jokes. In 2009, GWAR has carted its ridiculous show around the world, building its legend one stained shirt at a time.
But GWAR’s most amazing accomplishment over the past year would have to be its celebration of 25 years as a band. What began as a goof by a bunch of art-school kids in Virginia has become a repulsive, never-ending revue, not to mention a career for whoever it is inside those nasty costumes.
Do you know who has died before they turned 25? James Dean. Buddy Holly. The Notorious B.I.G. Joan of Arc. Steve Prefontaine.
But GWAR keeps rolling along. And for that, they deserve kudos. Kudos to you, GWAR.
GWAR, with Job For A Cowboy, The Red Chord, and a screening of the “Nice Try” snowboard film ; 7 p.m. Wednesday; $23 plus service charges in advance, $25 at the door. Advance tickets available at Side Effect Boardshop (541-312-8255), The Ticket Mill (541-318-5457) and through Ticketswest at www .ticketswest.com, 800-992-8499, and the Safeway at 642 N.E. Third St., in Bend; Midtown Ballroom, 51 N.W Greenwood Ave., Bend.
— Ben Salmon
