Dirty, fuzzy Peaches
Best known for her larger than life sexual personae Peaches‘ new album, I Feel Cream, is a surprisingly nuanced piece of work. Her singing and songwriting will be a welcome addition to tomorrow’s show at the Wonder Ballroom (128 NE Russell), but have no doubts that Peaches’ in-your-face sexuality will still be in full effect.
From the current Just Out issue, my full preview:
It’s all fine and dandy to be the upstanding queer citizens that we are, but sometimes the shackles of good taste have got to come off. There’s no one better to lead us into musical debauchery, foul language and pure sexual aggression than Canadian electro powerhouse Peaches, who busts the Wonder Ballroom wide open Tuesday, June 2.
Over-the-top from head-to-toe, Peaches — aka Merrill Nisker – sports a long, frizzy pseudo-’fro, tousled scarves and brightly colored makeup reminiscent of Blade Runner replicants. Badass bisexual breakdowns and gold lamé hot pants that reveal the edges of dark, scraggly pubes may not create a sensation everywhere, but they work splendidly here. That’s the kind of party that Peaches throws so well. In a complete abandon of convention and taboo, Peaches’ raunchy company gives all the freaky members of our community a real place to let loose.
There’s nothing subtle – and little left unsaid – by the beard-wearing, gender-bending performer. Her worse-than-sailor mouth occasionally delivers blunt, cock-sure raps like fan favorites “Fuck the Pain Away” or her revamped Joan Jett cover, “I Don’t Give a Fuck [About My Bad Reputation].” But her latest release, I Feel Cream, while every bit as dirty as her earlier work, is surprisingly nuanced. The long singing passages give Peaches a chance to showcase a voice we’ve scarcely heard before, while keeping the background beats as danceable and rough as ever.
The 40-year-old former schoolteacher mixes all her own music and claims to give “500 percent” at every show. That may involve dangling from a balcony, riding a giant plastic penis or making out with audience members. But she does it without missing a step.
Peaches plays with special guests Drums of Death Tues., June 2, 8:30 p.m. at the Wonder Ballroom, 128 NE Russell, $20 advance, $25 door, wonderballroom.com.
I'm so there, pink sequined dress in tow. The dress is my weapon against the shackles of good taste. If I listened to the WWeek review, I'd be prepping myself by visiting my local porno shop. Luckily, I think the dress will do the trick.
Nice review, by the way.