by Dominic Acito (@mycamgrlromance)
Live releases usually get second billing when compared to studio recordings, but every now and then, a live album captures the elusive energy of a great live show, making it a fan favorite. Tropical Fuck Storm's new live album, Inflatable Graveyard, is one such album. The concert itself took place at Chicago's Lincoln Hall, two years after mass tour cancellations caused by COVID.
TFS took the stage to the song "Costume Party," written by members of The Drones (a sort of forerunner to TFS) during a long tour. The humorous nature of the song signals that the audience is in for a fun night. They launch into a version of "Braindrops" developed over touring, where new licks are added, and the musical chemistry between each band member shines. Between songs, you can hear the excitement exchanged between the band and the audience as Erica Dunn remarks, "It's been too fuckin' long." Each song on Inflatable Graveyard benefits from a similar treatment, and you can tell the band is in their element as they joyfully make their way through their set.
TFS are your favorite band's favorite band. It's easy to see why other musicians gravitate toward them. Their songs range from fierce and chaotic Jesus Lizard-type brawlers like "Antimatter Animals" to atmospheric, emotional ballads like "Legal Ghost." The later gave a more raucous version on this outing. It's not just the range of song styles but the interplay between members that make this band a spectacle. TFS trade songs between singers, with Fiona Kitschin singing "Ann," Dunn singing "New Romeo Agent," and Gareth Liddiard singing most of the songs accompanied by both Kitschin and Dunn. As a listener, you feel the creative spark that ignites the band as they perform songs written in the studio with the instruments they can bring on the road.
Inflatable Graveyard delivers what every great live album should: fun and energetic versions of their songs. These songs have been honed after being played for years on tours, delivering exciting new interpretations that are still recognizable for those who want to sing along. We finally have a great document of the TFS live show, and you can see it for yourself in the US this fall.