KITTENS ABLAZE at the Rivoli (332 Queen West), tonight (Thursday, June 18), 11 pm. $12 or NXNE wristband. nxne.com.
IF YOU LIKE THIS BAND, BE SURE TO CHECK OUT Hooded Fang at the Dakota, Friday (June 19), 11 pm.
Considering that the name Kittens Ablaze is a whole lot more worrisome than Pet Shop Boys, PETA might soon be asking – demanding – that the Brooklyn band change its name.
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But it’s doubtful the rambunctious Americana punk six-piece would consider it, seeing as they credit the moniker for some of their growing success.
“To be honest, a lot of people [who come out to shows and write about us in the press] are curious because of the name,” drummer/singer Tim Spellman recently told gigmaven.com. “Either offended or delighted.”
While the moniker might reel people in, it’s Kittens Ablaze’s engaging live shows and rousing musical merrymaking (drawing comparisons to Ra Ra Riot, Arcade Fire and the Decemberists) that keep ’em coming.
Spellman sings lead and drums simultaneously while the band members – including a pianist, cellist, violinist, bassist and guitarist – march around him singing at the top of their lungs.
“Generally, we end up bleeding,” says guitarist Grant Rafter. “Michelle [Young] has even smashed her backup cello twice.”
Their debut, The Monstrous Vanguard (independent) came out earlier this year.
