The Crooked Fiddle Band have built a reputation as one of Australia's most intense live music experiences. Their performances compel audiences into a joyous frenzy of dancing and revelry in response to the dark, ecstatic energy ripping from the stage.
These “chainsaw folk vigilantes” are driven by the beautiful and furious fiddling of Jess Randall, and underpinned by a rhythm section that blasts, rocks and grooves. Screeches and squeals from the violin give way to barrages from rhythm guitar, drums and double bass; delicate cinematic folk builds into euphoric fervour.
“For us, there is a direct link between folk traditions and blast beats: it is the unstoppable energy, that intensity that hits you in the chest and forces you to move. 'Chainsaw folk' is our attempt to craft a new beast from these influences – coherent but mutated."
In February 2011, whilst the worst snowstorms in fifteen years blanketed the city of Chicago, audio engineer Steve Albini (Joanna Newsom, Nirvana, The Pixies, The Dirty Three, Gogol Bordello) captured the raw energy of tCFB's live sound in the band's debut full-length album "Overgrown Tales". The result is a solid set of new tunes, which while roaming across influences maintains an intense, cinematic energy. "Overgrown Tales" will be toured to Germany, Netherlands and UK in June/July 2011, with an Australian tour in September/October - see www.crookedfiddleband.com for more details.
“The Crooked Fiddle Band are completely surprising: the music is original and quixotic, and yet has the strength of some deep and strong roots. I can’t say I’ve ever heard anything else like it!”
Brian Eno
"...a short fast slab of hardcore gypsy passion... a fiery blend of various violin traditions with punk intensity and the raw finesse of crazed street virtuosos"
Bradfield Dumpleton, indie-cds.com
“Wild mash up of styles. Jess is giving the violin a solid workout. Which is a good thing. It deserves a flogging at times that bloody instrument. And a bouzouki in the line up! I'll be there at your next show if you shout the ouzo.”
Richard Kingsmill, Triple J Radio
“It has the intensity of most thrash metal songs yet doesn't need heavy, distorted electric guitars to get that point across...sure to get people moshing in the pit!”
Jeff Francesconi, metalreviews.com
"It's fantastic...Any band that digs Sepultura and Balkan gypsy bands is okay by me. It makes for some exciting listening.”
Zan Rowe, Triple J Radio
“...I’m taken by how effortlessly it appears that they are masters and mistresses of the mood, playing with and for dancers as if we are flexible puppets – willing eager recipients of the ebbs and flows…. They are so totally in charge of the audience in the most generous way...”
Severin, Cuturazi.com
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