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Who: Guerilla Toss
A little bit of background: They have been called deranged, freaks, weirdos – whatever. Guerilla Toss is an art rock group that formed in 2012 and in those two short years, GToss has become a name that’s been on everyone’s lips. They have been frequenting sweaty Boston basements, tour relentlessly and have earned a cult-like following because of it. Kassie Carlson pushes the limits of her own vocal chords with her signature blend of shrill yelps, screeches, and rapid-fire syllables in a language she sometimes makes up on the spot. The rest of the band encapsulates Carlson with layer after layer of pounding percussion, barbed guitar riffs and cruddy synth, all centered on…well it’s hard to nail down what.
I was met with gasps, wide eyes, and giddy smiles when I revealed that it was my first time seeing them at this year’s BUFU Fest. Guerilla Toss fans undoubtedly go every damn chance they get. “This is your first GToss show? You’re gonna love it, I just, there aren’t words. Have fun,” I was told. What I then experienced far surpassed anything I had heard on tape. GToss is a band that you have to see live. It’s messy, dirty, and mildly exhausting. At GToss shows you’re guaranteed an audience that moves/twists/flails/thrashes as a unit (not to mention, a lot of sweat).
Sounds kinda like: art / noise / punk / funk – rock
Why you should care: There’s a method to the madness.
Fun fact: Bassist Simon Hanes isn’t shy, nude appearances can and should be expected.
Press play: This video of “Drip Decay” from Guerilla Toss’ “Gay Disco” album release show from January is about as close as you can get to a GToss show without your eyes gettin’ wet. It also happens to be an incredibly dope video.
Like what you hear? Hit up Great Scott on Friday night with an open mind (but more importantly, earplugs).
Boston Hassle Presents: Guerilla Toss
w/Lovely Little Girls, Faun and a Pan Flute, Magicicada
Friday, June 27
Great Scott
1222 Comm Ave, Allston, MA 02134
10:00 p.m. – 21+ – $7
