Murder By Death: Red of Tooth and Claw (Vagrant)

After switching to Vagrant Records, Murder by Death is back with their forth full length album, Red of Tooth and Claw. Since the band’s sound is constantly evolving, I was very skeptical of this new album. The quartet from Bloomigton, Indiana features Adam Turla with vocals and guitar, Sarah Balliet on Cello and Keys, Dagan Thogerson on percussion, and Matt Armstrong on Bass. With the band’s ever growing popularity, they were able to work with Grammy-winning producer, Trina Shoemaker. Shoemaker worked with artists such as Queens of the Stone Age and Iggy Pop.

On first listen, I was scared and nervous that MBD would no longer hold a place in my heart as one of my most beloved bands. Previously in In Bocca Al Lupo, Turla’s voice remarkably sounded like Johnny Cash. However as this album starts off, his voice has a resemblance to a baritone Kermit the frog. Luckily, the sound of MBD merged quickly back into what their fans have grown to know and love. If it doesn’t strike your fancy on the first listen. Try it for a second time around. You won’t be able to stop humming the tunes for hours afterwards.

Their style has always generally stayed the same in all records, but each album has its own distinct character. In Red of Tooth and Claw, it seems like the band tried to add a little character from each album and combine them all into one. However, I think the first few songs really stand out as something new. The second track, Ball & Chain has a really distinct sound and is heavily supported by the rhythm of the cello.

MBD never fails to add a long stretch of purely instrumental music; Red of Tooth and Claw doesn’t break that streak and has the song Theme (for Ennio Morricone). One great thing about MBD is their lyrics are always dark and captivating but they can also have amazing songs that are solely instrumental. Theme sounds similar to songs of off Like the Exorcist but More Breakdancing.

The album ends with a completely new sound. Spring Break 1899 has a 1950s feel to it in the beginning and gradually becomes darker and darker. The song is a tragic love story. Turla’s voice shouts out heartache and pain and is backed up beautifully with the haunting sound that MBD is known for.

Some fans may say that Murder by Death has changed their sound, and while that’s true, it could be better described as a progression. Without a doubt, they still produce unmistakable music.