CD OF THE WEEK: Diesel Whores: The Fear
Finally, an album from one of Jo’burg’s best-kept secrets. Comprising their previously released EP and a new collection of tunes, the Diesel Whores have finally made good on their promise of brilliance. Bringing their psychoses-laced brand of rockabilly to CD and the masses, The Fear (Gosatantgo) is a heady mix of influences ranging from Bill Haley to The Pixies and Nick Cave. For those of sensitive dispositions, do not listen to this record.
Tracing the timeless rock’n’roll themes of drugs, sexual deviance and excess, the Whores present the seedy underbelly of a South Africa that no one else is brave enough to mention. But, as they cite in the album sleeve, when you’re coming back from a second year-long binge of drugs and alcohol, you’re pretty well qualified to do it.
They even managed to crack radio play with their first single, Jezebel, included again here. The rest of this album will probably not achieve that dubious honour, as most radio stations simply play it too safe to brave the deep and dark waters this recording sails.
It kicks off with Cocaine, a fitting tirade against the white powder that nearly destroyed this band, but which ultimately must be held responsible for their existence in the first place. It rollicks through existential angst on Digging a Hole and Girls for Satan to serious religion bashing in The Fear and Too Late to Be Saved. Groupies, incestuous sex and the madness of daily life are the meat and bread of singer Jaxon Rice. You may not like the ingredients, but the meal makes pretty filling eating.
The Fear may not be the most original album from a stylistic point of view. It is after all pure rockabilly madness, but from the sheer guts and madness of it, it is a record that demands repeat listening. Its originality of subject matter, delivery and attitude alone make it a must-have for the serious collector, more than just a casual novelty.
Order the CD directly from the band on www.dieselwhores.com