THE RESIDENTS Vinyl & CDs

Review: The self-described "world's most famous unknown anonymous art-concept multimedia pop group" return with one of their most expansive, daring, absurd and bad taste visions to date. Doctor Dark is a project over two years in the making while the concept has been in inception for decades with its overarching theatrical narrative inspired by the real life case of James Vance, the young man from Reno, Nevada who tried to commit suicide with a shotgun in 1985 after listening to Judas Priest and the subsequent unsuccessful, infamous 1990 court case that followed. Combining this with the life of the real "Doctor Death" - Jack Kevorkian; the Armenian-American pathologist and proponent of physician-assisted euthanasia, said to have assisted in the deaths of 130 terminally ill people between 1990 and 1998, you get the culmination of an orchestra-backed punk-opera written in collaboration with co-producer/conductor Edwin Outwater and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Detailed as "a journey into the greasy world of euthanasia, drug abuse and an unhealthy obsession with heavy metal", revolving around "a couple of heavy metal kids (Maggot and Mark) and an insomniac Russian physician (Dr. Anastasia Dark)", the three-act modern theatre piece offers a head-melting sonic concoction of abrasive art-punk stylings emboldened by complex brass and horn work, with a deft balancing act of chaotic yet controlled punk and classical arrangements. With both CD and vinyl versions including a "read-along libretto", with listeners encouraged to read as they listen to the album, as well as a stage adaptation apparently in the works to follow upcoming live tour dates, this just might be The Residents' piece de resistance of avant-garde art-punk multimedia absurdity.

Review: The Residents deliver a live performance that's as eccentric as their decades-long career. Recorded in Fribourg, this show blends their surreal storytelling with experimental soundscapes, creating an atmosphere that's both haunting and playful. The arrangements, reworked for the live setting, highlight their ability to transform unconventional ideas into captivating experiences. This is a snapshot of their raw, theatrical energy, offering long-time fans a reminder of their innovative spirit.

Review: Heavy duty stuff in all senses, The Residents channelled feeling following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the US into this three-part concept album. Divided into 'Loss', 'Denial', and, finally, 'The Three Metaphors'. It's as powerful a listen now as it was back in 2002, when it landed on the ears of art rockers and others shellshocked by one of the most significant political events of the post-Cold War period. While there's always been a melancholy to The Residents, this is particularly audible here, although it's delivered through fascinating juxtapositions - the 1980s funk-esque of 'Wolverines', the Parisian pop of 'The Weatherman', the eerie soundscapes on 'Ghost Child', the Broadway balladry of 'The Car Thief'. A fantastic, dense listening experience, which is only elevated by the true meaning and message.

Review: Buy Or Die! Ralph Records 1972-1982 offers an extensive look into the influential underground label founded by The Residents. This 3xCD compilation presents a blend of classic tracks, rare gems and unreleased material, showcasing the experimental ethos that defined Ralph Records. The set features works from avant-garde pioneers like Yello, Snakefinger, MX-80 Sound, Renaldo and The Loaf, and Art Bears, highlighting the diverse roster that spanned the realms of punk, new wave, and art rock. Curated with contributions from the artists and overseen by The Residents, the collection delves deep into the DIY culture of the time. A 7,500-word essay by The Residents' archivist accompanies the release, offering insight into the label's philosophy and impact. The compilation is enriched by never-before-heard tracks and rare visuals, making it a fascinating snapshot of a bold era in music history. With its mix of iconic singles and hidden treasures, this stands as a celebration of Ralph Records' daring legacy.