Artist description "Psych-jazz avant doom opera" (NME 8/19/00) lead by Bad Seeds percussionist James Sclavunos. New York based, James has been a full time member of The Bad Seeds since joining the band for the recording of the Murder Ballads album in 1996. Previously he has worked with the likes of Lydia Lunch, The Cramps, and Sonic Youth. The album was written and produced by Sclavunos and also marks his vocal debut. Jim is joined by Thomas Wydler, Bad Seeds drummer since 1986, also of the legendary German band Die Haut, as well as Kid Congo Powers(ex Bad Seeds/Cramps/Gun Club), Larry Mullins(Iggy Pop/ The Residents), Daria Klotz(God is My Co-Pilot), Sally Norvell(Congo Norvell), Brian Emerich (Foetus/Congo Norvell), Peter Mavrogeorgis(Angels of Light/Alice Texas), and Chris Pravdica(The Gunga Din).

Music Style avant-jazz/caberet/glumrock/psych/goth/noise/absurdist orch/garage-ballroom

Musical Influences Kurt Weill, Dietrich, Jaques Brel, Nenry Mancini, Serge Gainsbourg, P.D.Q. Bach, Bacharach, Xenakis, Suicide, Slayer, The Delta Cats, Leadbelly, Aldo Nova, Sparks, Astrid/Gilberto, Iggy, Ziggy, and the Bee Gees.

Similar Artists A smorgasbord that has been said to include: The Birthday Party, Dusty Springfield, Leonard Cohen, Pogues, Kurt Weill, etc.

Artist History The album was recorded in America and Australia over a twelve month period and was released domestically on Naked Spur on October 21st, 2000. The album was released abroad by Hitchyke/Soul Sister(SS104 CD). The live band has since been doing their utmost to promote this masterpiece in seedy venues throughout the U.S.

Group Members The current live lineup consists of:Jim Sclavunos-vocalsDavid Morton-piano/organ/ocarinaDaria Klotz- bass/vocalsMeredith Yayanos- violin/vocalsJennifer Carey- tuba/timpani/organ/clarinetPeter Mavrogeorgis- guitar/trombone/percussionDavid Berger- drums

Albums "The Vanity Set", Naked Spur Productions

Press Reviews ...a perverse joy...full-bodied vintage. -NME...infamous elegant degenerate Sclavunos doesn't disappoint! -Wire...wheezing cabaret of the absurd! - UNCUT...a splendid noir-ish extravaganza! - Bucketful of Brains

Location New York, NY - USA

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