The Locust aren’t for everybody. In fact, The Locust are probably for very few people. But if only one person out there reads this who was not previously aware of their existence, and becomes a true believer, then this post shall not have been in vain.
The Locust were formed in San Diego in 1994. Currently a four-piece, the band has gone through numerous personnel changes over the years, with only founder Justin Pearson remaining constant. Although the band’s ferocious sound could rightfully be called the only constant that matters. For the uninitiated, a natural response to hearing The Locust for the first time might be, “This is noise.” And you’d be right. But The Locust is so much more than that. Their brand of noise is one of the most carefully wrought and insightful ruckuses (rucki?) any post-hardcore band has ever achieved. Their music is a collection of fits and starts, off-kilter tempos, atonal blasts, and screeches that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up. But it’s artful and intended with a deeper meaning than simply fueling mosh pits. Guitarist Bobby Bray has been quoted to say The Locust’s music is erratic as “a reflection of perhaps how our brains have to function in order to be able to do anything in the Western societies.”
Although largely unintelligible, The Locust’s lyrics are deeply critical of politics, economics, sexuality, and our culture in general. A couple years ago, their ethics were challenged on several dates of their tour opening for Mike Patton’s Fantômas because they refuse to play Clear Channel-owned venues. They are currently on a complete U.S. tour which means you owe it to yourself to witness The Locust intensity first-hand… recordings simply cannot do this band justice. Their uniforms and often satirical lyrics may seem humorous, but believe that this band makes every effort to be the plague that their name may suggest. Keep an open mind and check out “God Wants Us All to Work in Factories” from March 2007’s New Erections.
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If you enjoy The Locust, tune into my radio show on kxlu 88.9fm 10a-2p every monday. we’re also streaming live at www.kxlu.com.